Zardari emphasizes anti-terrorism measures during Quetta visit

President Asif Ali Zardari visited Quetta on Wednesday to address the rising threat of terrorism in Balochistan. During his visit, he stressed the importance of winning the "war against terrorism" and promised to equip anti-terrorism forces with modern weaponry. The president's visit coincided with an increase in terrorist attacks in the region. Recent incidents included the hijacking of the Jaffar Express, which resulted in 31 deaths, and a suicide blast in Noshki that killed five. There have also been multiple assaults on police in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and security forces killed three terrorists in a recent operation. During his trip, Zardari met with provincial leaders, including Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. He expressed his deep connection to Balochistan, stating he wants every child in the province to receive an education. He emphasized the need for modern technology in schools and pledged to ensure development and peace in the area. The president also announced plans to establish a special camp in Balochistan after Eidul Fitr to hear citizens' concerns. He highlighted that gaining the people's trust involves granting them their rights, not taking them away. Zardari's statements came shortly after a parliamentary committee stressed the need for effective counterterrorism strategies to combat rising violence. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently echoed similar sentiments, calling for national unity to address the threat of terrorism.