KARACHI: Five governors from across the country on Saturday joined hands with a shared commitment to strengthen inter-provincial cooperation and enhance the constitutional role of governors for the benefit of the nation.

The first-ever historic Governors’ Summit was convened at Governor House in Karachi under the chairmanship of Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori. Besides Mr Tessori, Punjab Governor Salim Haider Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Balochistan Governor Sheikh Jaffer Khan Mandokhail and Gilgit-Baltistan Governor Syed Mehdi Shah discussed the roles and powers of governors.

Expressing gratitude to the attending governors for their presence, Sindh governor stated, “It is an honor to host this landmark event. The participation of all governors has added great value to this initiative.”

During the summit, Balochistan Governor Sheikh Jaffer Khan Mandokhail highlighted the need to enhance the constitutional role of governors, calling it the need of the hour.

Five governors from across Pakistan share stage to strengthen inter-provincial cooperation

KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi highlighted the importance of fostering inter-provincial communication, calling it essential for national unity.

The GB governor expressed his appreciation for Sindh governor’s initiative, stating, “Thank you for hosting this summit. Together, we will work towards common goals.”

Following the summit, Mr Tessori, accompanied by the other governors, addressed the media, declaring the event a historic milestone. “Today, politics took a back seat, and the state came forward. Governors from different political affiliations have united under one roof. We all stand firmly with the Constitution and the state,” he said.

He elaborated that the summit aimed to strengthen harmony among provinces. “Governors are constitutional representatives, and the Constitution is designed to serve the people. It is imperative for us to utilise our roles and powers to better serve the public,” he added.

He stated that all governors were committed to public service at their respective levels and were keen to play a more active role in facilitating governance and delivering services to the people.

Asked about future plans, Mr Tessori hinted at organising an International Governors’ Summit, adding, “Pakistan faces numerous challenges, and governors can play a significant role in addressing them.”

The Punjab governor commended Mr Tessori for hosting the summit, remarking, “By organising this summit, the Sindh governor has set a new benchmark. The next Governors’ Summit will be held in Lahore, with participation from former and current governors,” he announced.

The KP governor expressed a desire to contribute to the country’s economic development, while the Balochistan governor noted that such summits could help resolve pressing issues, highlighting the crucial role governors play in bridging provinces and the federal government. The GB governor extended his support to Sindh governor, stating, “We stand with you as you lead the way forward.”

The summit concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen inter-provincial cooperation and enhance the constitutional role of governors for the benefit of the nation.

Published in Dawn, January 12th, 2025