QUETTA: The Balochistan government and representatives of the business community on Thursday reached an agreement following successful negotiations, leading to the suspension of a province-wide strike and restoration of traffic on major highways.
The breakthrough came after a delegation led by Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove held talks with representatives of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce, traders and transporters in Quetta. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Home Hamza Shafqaat, were also present on the occasion.
Following the negotiations, traders agreed to suspend their ongoing protest and shutter-down strike for 10 days after the government assured them that their concerns would be addressed.
Soon after the agreement, traffic on national and inter-provincial highways across Balochistan was restored, and blocked routes were reopened, allowing the gradual resumption of movement and commercial activity.
Speaking on the occasion, Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove said maintaining law and order and ensuring the security of highways was the government’s responsibility, adding that all available resources were being utilised for the purpose.
He said that hostile elements were involved in attempts to destabilise peace in Balochistan and disrupt economic activity in the province.
“The state, government and people are on the same page, and collective efforts are needed to defeat such elements,” he said.
The minister added that efforts were underway on an emergency basis to curb terrorism and improve the overall security situation.
Traders and transporters welcomed the government’s assurances and announced the suspension of their protest, while agreeing to continue consultations for the resolution of outstanding issues.
