QUETTA, Jan 13: Caretaker Chief Minister of Balochistan Sardar Mohammad Saleh Bhootani has said that he is ready to hold dialogue with political and tribal leaders of the province to resolve all issues.

Speaking to journalists at the ‘meet the press’ programme of the Quetta Press Club on Sunday, he said the government planned to hold dialogue with recognised tribal elders to ensure peace and order in the province. “It is my desire to meet all tribal elders who are really heading their tribes to promote love and brotherhood among the people,” he said.

He said the law and order situation in the province had improved to a large extent with the help of the masses. He said the situation would be improved further with the cooperation of the elders and youth.

“Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri cannot come out of his home because of his health but I can meet him,” Sardar Bhootani said. He said he would soon meet the nationalist leader to get his advice for the betterment of Balochistan.

He said efforts were also under way for the release of former chief minister Sardar Akhtar Mengal but he could not influence the court.

He said sacrifices of the elders had made Balochistan part of Pakistan. “People of Balochistan love Pakistan and their love will continue,” Sardar Bhootani said.

He said Balochistan had some legitimate rights for which voice would be raised at the proper forum.

He said President Pervez Musharraf also wanted to address the grievances of the people of Balochistan and bring the province at par with the developed areas of the country. He dispelled the impression about pre-poll rigging and said his government was determined to hold free and fair election. He said no party had complained about interference of any official in the election.

“There is no flour shortage in Balochistan and the Frontier Corps has been empowered to control wheat smuggling,” he said.