PESHAWAR: Adviser to Chief Minister on Information Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif has said that restoration of peace in Kurram tribal district is a top priority of the government.

He was talking to representatives of Kurram Grand Jirga to discuss the ongoing challenges being faced by the district and the peace process, according to a statement.

It said that Barrister Saif underscored the need for removal of heavy weapons from Kurram to pave way for lasting peace. He called for elimination of anti-aircraft weapons, missiles, RPGs and other heavy artillery. “Such measures are essential to ensure stability in the area,” he said. He added that dismantling bunkers was a prerequisite for achieving a peaceful environment.

He said that the main roads in the region could not be reopened to public traffic until removal of heavy weapons and destruction of bunkers. Acknowledging the existing concerns over the weapons surrendering process, he expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved soon.

Barrister Saif said that ensuring security in Kurram was a top priority of the government. He urged the jirga to seek a permanent solution to those issues with a focus on safeguarding future generations. He said that both parties must come to a mutual agreement regarding return of heavy weapons and demolition of bunkers to secure key routes.

In addition to peace efforts, he said that the provincial government would continue to guarantee steady delivery of lifesaving medical supplies and essential foodstuffs to the people of Kurram. He said that a significant shipment of medicines was sent to the region in the helicopter of chief minister earlier that day.

The government, Barrister Saif said, had also allocated 2,000 metric tonnes of wheat from its reserves to address food shortage in the area.

He acknowledged past efforts, such as Murree Agreement, which sought to resolve the conflict, but emphasised that that time, the jirga must find a permanent and sustainable solution to ensure lasting peace and stability in Kurram.

Published in Dawn, December 18th, 2024