ISLAMABAD, March 20: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz discussed Pakistan Muslim League (PML) president Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain on Sunday the situation in Balochistan against the backdrop of the latter’s contacts with Baloch leaders. The prime minister reiterated the government’s desire to seek an early political settlement in order to restore peace and stability in the province. He, however, made it clear that the government was determined to establish its writ and provide full protection to national installations in Sui and other areas of the province.

Chaudhry Shujaat informed the premier about his meetings earlier in the day with the Baloch nationalist leaders Mehmud Khan Achakzai and Abdur Rauf Mengal in his effort to persuade them to attend the Monday’s crucial meeting of the parliamentary committee on Balochistan. He also informed the PM about his first telephonic contact with Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti

The prime minister said the government earnestly desired to resolve the situation in Sui peacefully. He said: “Our doors are open for dialogue and discussion in a spirit of accommodation and understanding.”

Mr Aziz said the government remained committed to implementing its policy of speedy development of Balochistan and improving the quality of life of its people.

The prime minister praised the efforts of Chaudhry Shujaat and hoped that these would bear fruit and help find amicable and peaceful solution.

PML secretary general Mushahid Hussain Syed attended the meeting which was held at the residence of Chaudhry Shujaat.