PM Shahbaz asks CM Afridi to speed up efforts for peace, security in KP

2026-02-02 - 08:26

ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif met with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, underscoring the importance of strong cooperation between the federal and provincial governments for the development and welfare of the province. During the meeting, the Prime Minister assured support within the federal government’s mandate for development projects, infrastructure improvements, education, health, and employment opportunities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He emphasized that maintaining law and order requires joint efforts between the federal and provincial governments. He urged the provincial administration to strengthen its institutions to effectively combat terrorism. “The provincial government must speed up its efforts for peace and security. Both federal and provincial authorities will continue joint initiatives to eliminate terrorism,” he said. Shahbaz Sharif added that the provincial government has the authority to take measures to improve health and education for the people, while the federal government remains committed to the welfare of the province. “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a vital part of the federation, and the federal government will continue to make every effort within its jurisdiction to ensure the prosperity of its people,” he said. The PM further highlighted the importance of close coordination between the federation and provinces for national development and public service. “Through mutual consultation and collaboration, national unity, stability and prosperity can be effectively achieved. The federal government is committed to inclusive development and working with all provinces to realize a shared vision of progress,” he added. KP CM Afridi says meeting with PM Shahbaz focused on terrorism, not politics Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi clarified that his recent meeting with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif was focused on counter-terrorism cooperation and provincial development, with no discussions on political matters or the PTI founder. He expressed these words while talking to the reporters after meeting the PM. CM Afridi said the meeting began with condemnation of recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan, followed by talks on a joint strategy to eliminate terrorism. The discussions also included provincial matters such as the NFC Award, the National Highway Programme (NHP), and federal dues, with responsibilities assigned to Ahsan Iqbal for follow-up. Highlighting the province’s efforts, Afridi said KP has spent Rs 26 billion from its own resources on the tribal districts for security and development. “Terrorists have no province, country, or religion. As Pakistanis, we must all condemn terrorism, and KP will continue to do so,” he added. He emphasized that the meeting did not involve any discussion on the PTI founder or political issues. Afridi also urged that statements should not hurt the sentiments of residents of Tirah Valley and Kurram, who are making sacrifices for the country. “In this context, Rs 4 billion is nothing compared to their sacrifices,” he said. Sohail Afridi further explained that the meeting was necessary in his capacity as Chief Minister to safeguard the rights and welfare of KP and its people. He confirmed that another special meeting on counter-terrorism measures will be held soon. Man killed after bomb blast hit Mamund area in KP’s Bajaur