May 29, 2008

Balochistan: Baloch Leader Calls for Conflict Settlement


Active ImageSardar Akhtar Mengal calls on the Pakistani government to hold negotiations with the aim of ensuring peace and tranquillity in Balochistan.

Below is an article published by the Associated Press of Pakistan:

Former Chief Minister of Balochistan Sardar Akhtar Mengal Wednesday [28 May 2008] expressed his willingness to hold negotiations with the government aiming at ensuring peace and tranquility in Balochistan.

Talking to private TV channel (Geo News), the Balochistan National Party (Mengal) BNM-M chief asked the government to take certain steps before starting formal round of talks to increase shattered confidence of Balochs.

He said certain CBMs could prove vital for creating harmonious atmosphere like termination of operation in the provinces. Rehabilitation of displaced peoples and help in locating around 1100 missing persons of the province.

Expressing hope for peace and progress of the province, he said the behaviour of Pakistan People’s Party [PPP] with Balochs is much positive as compared to previous government’s, and aforementioned CBMs would prove vital for creating harmonious atmosphere for negotiations between government and BNM.

“PPP looks serious in its endeavours to address the problems of Balochs aiming to bring them into mainstream.” he added.

Responding to a question he welcomed the renaming of NWFP saying that it would give identity to the people of the province. 

Regarding his future strategy he said BNM’s central executive committee would meet in Quetta next month to chalk out future strategy of the party.

Responding to a question, he said he remained incarcerated for 18 months of fake charges.