ISLAMABAD, Nov 11: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that the development of backward and underdeveloped areas is a priority of the government.

The prime minister was talking to Amir Muqam, Minister of State for Water and Power, who called on him at the Prime Minister's House here on Thursday.

During the meeting they discussed matters pertaining to water and power sector. They also discussed different issues and ongoing development schemes with special reference to the NWFP.

The minister of state apprised the prime minister of the upcoming by-elections in Malakand and informed him that the position of the PML candidate in Malakand was very strong.

The minister also apprised the prime minister of the ongoing development projects in his area.

The prime minister assured the minister of state that the government would provide resources for the provision of basic amenities of life to the people.

He reiterated that the government was committed to providing electricity, gas, clean drinking water, basic health facilities and education to all areas of the country.