Wednesday, 24 April 2024, 10:29:42 am

Analysts emphasize the importance of Balochistan as future trade hub of Pakistan
January 14, 2021

Brig. (Retd.) Said Nazir (Defense Analyst): Balochistan has a great geographical significance in Pakistan's growing economy. This largest province of Pakistan in terms of geographic size borders Afghanistan and Iran. Balochistan's importance has further increased due to Gwadar Port. Balochistan is blessed with valuable minerals, gas and oil reserves. The enemy is envious of Balochistan's unexplored treasures and China Pakistan Economic Corridor. India is continuously involved in committing subversive activities in Balochistan to destabilize Pakistan. Gwadar is future trade hub for Pakistan. Developed Balochistan is highly imperative for Pakistan's progress and prosperity. 

Brig. (Retd.) Haris Nawaz (Defense Analyst): It is appreciable that Army Chief visited Balochistan and reviewed the overall security situation. India is not digesting the great development potential of Balochistan. Pakistan is fencing the Afghan border to stop the movement of terrorists. Pakistan Army has rendered matchless sacrifices to eradicate the menace of terrorism from the country. Our security forces are capable enough to counter the future challenges as well. Enemies are utilizing every option and committing huge financial resources to destabilize Pakistan. We have to be vigilant enough and address our internal issues to counter the enemy's nefarious designs. 

Dr. Huma Baqai (IR Expert): Pakistan has always believed in connectivity and resolving issues through collective efforts. The Indian government is pursuing toxic ideology which is not only against the Muslims but also other minorities living in their country. There is a strong element of Islamophobia in the West. Pakistan has categorically highlighted the issue of Islamophobia at every international forum. It is high time for the West to take corrective measures to safeguard the interests of different religious groups living there. Pakistan has diversified its foreign policy. It is high time for Islamabad to strengthen its bilateral and economic ties with other regional countries. It is appreciable that Islamic countries are connecting and raising voice for the oppressed Muslims living all over the world. The issues of Muslim world can only be resolved through unity and consistency. There are a lot of challenges that need to be addressed through continuity and proactive diplomacy.

Dr. Sarfraz Ahmad Khan (IR expert): Pakistan enjoys strong and cordial bilateral ties with both Turkey and Azerbaijan. We must focus on common interests and make collective efforts to resolve the regional issues. The territorial conflicts of Turkey with Greece over Cyprus, Azerbaijan with Armenia over Nagorno Karabakh and Pakistan with India over Kashmir are the common issues faced by the three countries. The brethren Muslim countries are committed to enhance the economic ties and cooperate in the field of cyber security. Azerbaijan has great oil deposits and we can import oil from Baku at a reasonable rate. Turkey has a strong economy and we can attract more investment in Pakistan from Turkey. It is high time for the Muslim countries to get united and make collective efforts to counter the challenge of Islamophobia.