QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarf­raz Bugti has asked the elements misled into violence by India to reconsider their position and join politics and sports.

The chief minister was talking to reporters after attending the concluding ceremony of World International Boxing Championship.

On the issue of tensions with India, he said New Delhi might have underestimated Pak­i­s­tan’s capabilities, nat­ion’s strength and determination.

“Pakistan does not desire a war, but whenever the war has been impo­sed upon us, the ene­my has been given a befitting response.”

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Earlier speaking at the concluding ceremony of the champio­nship, the CM announced full support for sports activities in the province and a reward of Rs100 million for Quetta-born boxer Moha­m­mad Waseem, who rece­ntly won the WBA World Gold Bantamweight Title.

“There is no shortage of talent in Balochistan. If our youth are given the right platform and support, they can bring international acclaim to the country,” he said.

He acknowledged the role played by Lt Gen Rahat Naseem Ahmed Khan, commander of 12 Corps and Mr Waseem in turning the dream of hosting this event in Balo­chistan a reality.

“What seemed like an ambitious idea has now materialised into a historic achievement,” the CM said.

Boxing star Waseem delivered a stunning performance on Saturday, defeating Vene­z­uela’s Ernesto Arinyo in the ninth round to clinch the WBA World Gold Bantamweight title. Local boxer Fatima Haz­ara and national boxer Sah­ir Iqbal also claimed victories in their title bouts.

Published in Dawn, May 12th, 2025