QUETTA: Speaker of the Balochistan Assembly, Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai, has said that strong coordination and effective cooperation between national and international institutions is essential to address the social and developmental challenges faced by Balochistan.
He made these remarks during a meeting held on Monday in the Balochistan Assembly with a delegation of the United Nations Population Fund (United Nations Population Fund). The delegation was led by Deputy Representative Dr. Gulnara Kadirkulova and Programme Coordinator Sadia Atta, while Secretary Population Zafar Ali Baloch was also present on the occasion.
Focus on Health, Women Empowerment, and Youth Development
The meeting included detailed discussions on health services, population welfare, women’s empowerment, youth development, family welfare, and sustainable development goals. Both sides emphasized expanding awareness programs and improving access to basic facilities, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas of the province.
The Speaker stated that joint initiatives in women’s health, youth welfare, and family wellbeing could play a key role in improving the overall standard of living in Balochistan.
Development Challenges in Balochistan
Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai highlighted that due to its vast geography and limited resources, Balochistan faces unique development challenges. He noted that shortages in healthcare, education, and infrastructure remain major concerns in several districts.
He stressed that collaboration with international development partners can bring meaningful and sustainable improvements in the lives of women, youth, and other vulnerable segments of society.
UNFPA Commitment to Cooperation
The UNFPA delegation reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with the Government of Balochistan and the provincial assembly in areas such as maternal and child health, family planning, youth capacity building, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (Sustainable Development Goals).
Both sides agreed on strengthening institutional linkages, expanding joint welfare projects, and increasing the scope of development programs in remote areas of the province.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Speaker thanked the delegation and emphasized the importance of continued joint efforts for sustainable development and prosperity in Balochistan. He also presented a commemorative shield to the visiting delegation.