British High Commission calls on KP-CM, discuss matters of mutual interest

PESHAWAR
British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, met with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur to discuss matters of mutual interest, particularly the law and order situation in the region. Additional Chief Secretary Planning and other relevant officials were also present during the meeting.
Discussions focused on the ongoing public welfare initiatives in the province with the cooperation of British donor agencies. Chief Minister Gandapur highlighted the deteriorating law and order situation, particularly in the merged districts, attributing it to the neighboring country, Afghanistan. He stressed the need for collective and effective measures to find a lasting solution.
“If the prevailing security issues, especially in the merged districts, are not addressed in time, they could impact the entire country,” the chief minister warned. He informed that a jirga had been formed to work towards a permanent resolution, and preparations were in place to send an Afghanistan jirga. However, since the matter falls under the federal government’s jurisdiction, approval of the Terms & References (T&Rs) is awaited.
Gandapur emphasized that establishing sustainable peace in the region is in the interest of Pakistan, the broader region, and the world. He urged Pakistan and other countries to engage in negotiations and make collective efforts to resolve the issue.
The meeting also touched upon financial issues affecting the province, particularly its pending dues from the federal government. The chief minister stated that the province is not receiving its rightful share for the merged districts under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. Additionally, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is owed over two trillion rupees in net hydropower profits and is entitled to Rs. 220 billion annually from tobacco cess under the 18th Constitutional Amendment.
For the past ten months, the province has not received funds under the fast-track implementation program for the merged districts, causing disruptions in development projects and increasing public frustration. Gandapur called for a revision of the current NFC formula and stressed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa absorbs 45 percent of the country’s carbon but receives no financial return for its forest coverage. He demanded that a share be allocated for forest areas in the NFC.
“If our constitutional rights are not addressed by next month, we will approach the Supreme Court,” the chief minister asserted.
Highlighting investment opportunities, Gandapur invited foreign investors to explore Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tourism and mineral sectors. He shared that a provincial mining company has been established to harness mineral resources effectively and that work is ongoing to develop integrated tourism zones.
Foreign investors will be provided with all necessary facilities, he assured.
Regarding Afghan refugees, the chief minister stated that the provincial government would follow any decision made by the federal government on their repatriation. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring a dignified return for the refugees if an evacuation decision is made.