Islamabad: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti met British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, in Islamabad. The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation, climate change, governance reforms, and development initiatives in Balochistan.
Focus on Climate Change
Chief Minister Bugti called climate change an “extraordinary challenge” for the province. He announced the establishment of Balochistan’s first Climate Fund to address environmental risks and build resilience.
Governance and Budget Reforms
Bugti said his government is taking strong steps to promote transparency and good governance. He revealed that the province saved Rs. 14 billion from the non-development budget in the last fiscal year.
Education and Scholarships
Highlighting education reforms, Bugti said 16,000 teachers had been recruited on merit in the education department. He also announced the Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Program, which provides quality education opportunities to students across Balochistan.
The scholarship program includes children of civilian martyrs, transgender persons, minorities, and other marginalized groups. “We are ensuring that no deserving student is left behind,” Bugti stated.
Youth and Employment Programs
Bugti said Balochistan has launched its first-ever Youth Policy. Under the Chief Minister Youth Skills Development Program, the government aims to train 30,000 young people and link them with employment opportunities abroad.
He added that the provincial government, in collaboration with Akhuwat Foundation, is introducing an interest-free loan scheme to help young entrepreneurs start businesses.
Health and Institutional Reforms
The chief minister said reforms are also underway in the health sector to improve services. “Our focus is on building strong institutions that deliver results for the people,” he noted.
UK Commends Balochistan Reforms
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott praised the provincial government’s initiatives, particularly its efforts in governance reforms, transparency, and climate action. Both sides also agreed to expand cooperation in training Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) police and strengthening institutional capacity.
