Hardening of the State Conference Reviews Security Strategy, Reaffirms Commitment to Balochistan’s Stable Future

Quetta, January 17, 2026
The 21st meeting of the Hardening of the State Conference was held in Quetta under the chairmanship of Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, with Corps Commander Balochistan Lieutenant General Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan also in attendance. The high-level meeting brought together senior representatives from federal and provincial departments, civil administration, and security forces including the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, and Pakistan Coast Guard.
Addressing the participants, the chief minister said the conference has been held regularly for the past one and a half years and has emerged as an effective coordination platform for ensuring peace and stability in the province. He explained that the meeting, convened roughly every 21 days, focuses on reviewing progress on previously taken decisions and strengthening implementation mechanisms.
The conference reviewed ongoing anti-smuggling and anti-narcotics operations, stressing the need to further intensify actions against illegal activities undermining the province’s security and economy. Participants expressed satisfaction over progress on the B-Areas to A-Areas conversion initiative and emphasized extending its effectiveness across all divisions to ensure development benefits reach every region.
Discussions also covered the overall security situation, development projects, and public welfare initiatives, with a renewed resolve to pursue a coordinated strategy for Balochistan’s peaceful and prosperous future.