Pakistan’s progress linked with Balochistan’s uplift: COAS

• COAS visits Awaran, inaugurates Turbat-Bulaeda Road

On the second day of his visit to Balochistan, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited Awaran and inaugurated work for Turbat-Bulaeda Road and earth breaking for construction of Cadet College Awaran (CCA) at Jhao, said a press release issued here by Inter-Services Public Relations on Monday.
On arrival at Jhao, the COAS was given detailed briefing by General Officer Commanding Maj-Gen Zaki Manj on recent security measures as well as support to the government on socio-economic projects. Cadet College Awaran initially will be for 800 cadets with plans to enhance its capacity subsequently. The CCA would have hostel facilities for 300 cadets and faculty and will be constructed by Pakistan Army Engineers. The project will be completed in quick time-frame of two years for its planned initial capacity.
At Jhao, the COAS also interacted with local elders and troops in the area. Speaking on the occasions, he appreciated the progress through joint working by security forces and the civil administration. He said that continuity of effort with national commitment was the way forward to bring about the desired development and stability in the province.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo accompanied the COAS throughout the visit and discussed various coordination aspects to successfully carry on the execution of Khushal Balochistan programme. Southern Command Commander Lt-Gen Asim Salim Bajwa and other civil and military officials were present on the occasion.
Earlier, COAS General Qamar Javaid Bajwa visited FC Balochistan (South) Headquarters, Turbat.
Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo, Southern Command Commander Lt-Gen Asim Saleem Bajwa and IGFC Balochistan (South) Maj-Gen Tariq Aman were also present. Later, the COAS attended closing ceremony of Mekran Festival. A large number of local residents attended the ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that provision of civic facilities and peaceful environment in less developed areas of Balochistan was a dream coming true. People of Balochistan and Turbat have the rights for provision of similar facilities as in rest of Pakistan. He said Khushal Balochistan programme was aimed at fulfillment of this right.
He said the presence of such a large gathering at this festival was testimony of the fact that Balochistan was moving towards peace and prosperity which was future of Pakistan’s progress as well.