QUETTA: Chief Minister Balochistan Dr Abdul Malik Baloch Saturday said he considers holding of local government polls as a positive stride towards restoration of peace in the restive province, plagued by sectarian violence and attacks by Baloch insurgents.

During an exclusive interview with DawnNews, he expressed optimism regarding dialogue with the disgruntled Baloch leaders and declared the LG elections important for empowering the masses at gross roots level.

A large number of people turned out at polling stations in Quetta and other parts of the province to cast their votes and elect their representatives, he said. “In some districts, voter turn out was more than 50 per cent,” said the chief minister, referring to the most backward Musa Khail district.

He admitted that there was law and order problem in his hometown district Kech and other volatile parts of the province.

Balochistan – the largest province of Pakistan in terms of area and the most neglected one – is rife with Baloch insurgency, sectarianism, tribal disputes and other problems.

The polls would strengthen the masses and it would open new vistas of prosperity and development in the province, he said. “Despite odds, we managed to hold peaceful elections,” he added.

Regarding proposed All Parties Conference (APC) on finding solution of issues relating to the province, he said his government was determined to bring all stake holders on negotiating table to address the grievances of people.

“Use of force doesn’t offer any solution rather table talks extinguish flames of fire.”

The chief minister also assured that his provincial government would guard the proposed Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline project. “Now Iran's attitude has changed,” he said.

He termed reconciliation between Iran and world powers as good omen for peace in the world in general and the region in particular. “21st Century is not for wars, we should enjoy peace now,” he added.

In response to a question, he said Pakistan must have good relations with all neighbours including Afghanistan, Iran, India and other regional countries. “Ultimately, relations with neighbouring countries will have positive impact on our internal peace,” he added.

When asked about protection to Nato supplies passing through Balochistan, he made it clear that his government would guard the supplies.

“Being a nation it should be clear to either be a friend or enemy of a country.”

“We cannot live in isolation,” he said, adding that Pakistan must develop cordial relations with US, West and rest of the world in order to protect the country’s interests.

When asked about multi-dollar Reko Diq project, Dr Baloch said his government would make decision about the project keeping in view interests of Baloch masses.

He, moreover, mentioned that the company which was executing the project earlier had gone to an international court to claim its damages. “In arbitration, the court asked us to pay damages to the company and it would be difficult for us,” said the Balochistan chief minister.