During a meeting in Quetta on Friday, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti reached a significant agreement to enhance the capacity of the province’s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD). The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on improving security and law enforcement capabilities. This partnership aims to provide specialized training and resources to the CTD, bolstering its effectiveness in combating terrorism.
The dialogue extended beyond security matters to address broader issues of mutual interest. Chief Minister Bugti highlighted the exceptional threat posed by climate change to the region, detailing the provincial government’s proactive response, which includes the establishment of Balochistan’s first-ever Climate Fund. This initiative is designed to mitigate the severe environmental impacts facing the province.
Further discussions covered essential reforms in governance and public sector management. CM Bugti emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, revealing that a substantial sum of Rs. 14 billion had been saved from the non-development budget in the last fiscal year. These efforts are part of a larger strategy to promote good governance and channel resources toward critical development projects in sectors such as education and health.
High Commissioner Marriott expressed her appreciation for the provincial government’s reform agenda and its dedication to good governance. The productive meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to expand cooperation across various sectors, with the enhanced training for the CTD standing as a key outcome to ensure improved law and order in Balochistan.
