Independent Report
QUETTA: Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has highlighted the province’s progress in addressing terrorism and climate challenges, emphasizing that a structured and proactive approach has led to a marked decline in terrorist incidents across the region.
The chief minister made these observations during a high-level meeting with a United Nations delegation headed by UN Resident Coordinator Mohammad Yahya. The discussions focused on human development, public welfare, human rights, Afghan refugee management, climate change, and avenues for development collaboration.
The UN delegation recognized Balochistan’s efforts, praising legislative steps against child marriage, youth skill development programs, the establishment of the Women’s Endowment Fund, and other measures advancing human rights and social welfare. The delegation congratulated the provincial government on these accomplishments.
Highlighting climate action, CM Bugti announced that Balochistan has launched a dedicated Climate Fund for the first time, signaling a forward-looking commitment to environmental sustainability. Regarding Afghan refugee repatriation, he confirmed that the provincial government is implementing federal policies with particular attention to the safety and dignity of women, children, and the elderly, noting that no harassment incidents were reported during the process.
The chief minister also underscored Balochistan’s cultural traditions of hospitality, noting that returning Afghan refugees traveling from Sindh and Punjab were welcomed warmly by provincial authorities.
Acknowledging UN support, CM Bugti highlighted the role of UNHCR in education, healthcare, and renewable energy initiatives, noting the handover of 48 solar-powered public facilities worth one billion rupees. These projects, he said, represent a major step toward promoting clean energy, stable institutions, and sustainable public services benefiting both Afghan refugees and local communities.
UNHCR Country Representative Filpa Kandler emphasized the critical role of reliable energy in sustaining essential public services, highlighting the importance of maintaining refugees’ dignity while ensuring services for all populations. UN Resident Coordinator Mohammad Yahya lauded Balochistan’s reform efforts, protection of human rights, and commitment to Afghan refugees, pledging to expand collaboration further.
The UN delegation comprised UNHCR Country Representative Filpa Kandler, IOM Country Representative Satomio, UNHCR Sub-Office Head Tesfaye Bekele, Commissioner Afghan Refugees Arbab Talib-ul-Mola, UNHCR Senior Protection Officer Arkadi Lebowski, Associate Reporting Officer Mehwish Saeed, Associate External Relations Officer Qaiser Khan Afridi, and Assistant Program Officer Jalal Khan.
