ISLAMABAD (6 AM Report): Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti met with British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott in Islamabad to discuss a wide range of issues including bilateral cooperation, climate change impacts, governance reforms, security, and development strategies for the province.
During the meeting, CM Bugti highlighted climate change as an unprecedented challenge and announced that Balochistan has established its first-ever “Climate Fund” to implement effective measures for disaster management and environmental protection. He emphasized that the provincial government is committed to improving governance and ensuring transparency. Last fiscal year alone, the government saved 14 billion rupees from the non-development budget through prudent financial management.
The chief minister also shared details of ongoing reforms in education and health sectors. Under the Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Program, students across Balochistan, including children of civilian martyrs, transgender persons, minorities, and other marginalized groups, are being provided access to quality education. Additionally, in collaboration with Akhuwat Foundation, the government is introducing an interest-free loan scheme to economically empower the youth.
Sarfaraz Bugti unveils historic climate fund, education overhaul and 30,000 youth skills program; UK pledges deeper support in security and development
Bugti revealed that 16,000 contractual teachers have been recruited purely on merit and comprehensive reforms in education and health departments are underway to enhance public access to essential services. For the first time in Balochistan’s history, a provincial youth policy has been launched along with the Chief Minister Youth Skills Development Program, which aims to train 30,000 young people and facilitate overseas employment opportunities for them.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott lauded the Balochistan government’s efforts for good governance, social sector reforms, and youth empowerment. She commended the province’s initiatives in education, health, and climate resilience. Both sides also discussed enhancing cooperation in multiple sectors, including professional training support to CTD Police to strengthen law enforcement capabilities.
The meeting reflected a strong commitment by both parties to deepen collaboration in climate action, security, and human capital development, paving the way for Balochistan’s sustainable progress.
