Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has rejected the impression that the province was distancing itself from Pakistan, saying those who believed terrorist elements could weaken the country through violence were “living in a fool’s paradise”.
He was speaking at a flag-hoisting ceremony in Quetta on Friday to mark Independence Day.
Mr Bugti said the people of Balochistan were patriotic and their participation in Independence Day celebrations across the province was evidence of their commitment to Pakistan.
He said the government’s doors remained open to addressing the genuine issues faced by the people of Balochistan through dialogue and political engagement.
“No ideology can be imposed through the barrel of the gun,” the chief minister said, adding that terrorists had drawn the Baloch people into a futile conflict and should abandon the path of violence.
He said the government was prepared for legitimate political engagement and dialogue but ruled out negotiations with elements involved in the killing of innocent people.
