Quetta: The Balochistan National Party (BNP) will soon summon a multi-party conference in Islamabad to discuss the concerns of the Baloch people regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), stated BNP chief Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal during a news conference at his residence on December 6.
According to Mengal, the former chief minister of Balochistan, interests of the Baloch have been ignored in the CPEC-related memorandums of understanding and local representatives have not been given full representation.
Although the BNP attended the All Parties Conference chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Mengal reportedly said the premier had failed to keep his word. Although a PKR 46 billion investment from China had been announced – PKR 40 billion to be allotted for private investment and PKR 6 billion to be spent on infrastructure – there were no details on where the economic and industrial zones would be established.
“The people of Balochistan are, after all, the owners of this land and coast. They should know and be told each and everything,” he said.
Mengal said his party is not against development, specifically in Gwadar, but any actions taken against the wishes of the Baloch people would be strongly opposed.
