Lieutenant General (R) Amir Riaz spoke with renowned journalist Shahzeb Khanzada on Geo News on February 3, 2026, providing a detailed analysis of terrorism in Balochistan, external backing, and the social and economic challenges facing the province. He stated that Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province by area, covering approximately 43 percent of the country, yet its population is relatively small, around 12 million.
Population, Employment, and State Responsibility
According to Lieutenant General (R) Amir Riaz, the number of young people aged 19 to 40 in the province is between 4 to 5 million, who require employment opportunities. He said that providing jobs for this population is not impossible for a state like Pakistan, provided there is coordinated planning and the inclusion of all stakeholders.
Role of Political Leadership and Private Sector
He emphasized that the federal, provincial, district, and local political leadership, along with large business groups, must play an active role in partnership with the state so that the benefits of development and employment reach the public directly.
Local Government and District-Level Development
During the discussion, he noted that in districts where District Coordination Committees have been established and funded, the local government system is functioning effectively. Through these committees and with the cooperation of local representatives, development programs are being implemented at the district level, improving governance.
Reko Diq Project and Resource Narrative
Lieutenant General (R) Amir Riaz clarified that the perception that projects like Reko Diq are meant to seize or exploit Balochistan’s resources is merely propaganda. He stated that the Balochistan government holds a 25 percent share in the Reko Diq project and retains control over its operations and management. According to him, the project is expected to increase provincial revenue, create new employment opportunities, and enhance skills for local people.
Purpose of Terrorism and Targeting Development Projects
He said that enemy elements are attempting to spread fear in Chagai and its surroundings to sabotage important projects like Reko Diq. Similarly, targeting laborers in Gwadar is intended to harm the Gwadar port and associated development projects.
Plots to Mislead the Public
Lieutenant General (R) Amir Riaz stated that the Baloch people should understand that enemy elements are using them for their own purposes. According to him, terrorists never achieve anything from their external masters; they are used merely for destruction.
Peaceful Struggle and Constitutional Path
He clarified that peaceful political struggle within constitutional limits is the right of every citizen. However, terrorism and violence against the state are never justifiable. He emphasized that while advocating for rights is acceptable, taking up arms is not the correct path.
Baloch Public Issues and State Responsibility
Lieutenant General (R) Amir Riaz acknowledged that the Baloch people have real issues, and the primary responsibility for addressing them lies with the state. However, he stressed that resolving these issues is only possible within constitutional and peaceful frameworks.
Regional Examples and Warning
At the end of the discussion, he said history shows that whether in Iraq, Libya, or Syria, external powers have used local populations for their own objectives and later abandoned them. According to him, Pakistan’s state is large-hearted and capable of forgiving and supporting its people, but unfortunately, some individuals have chosen the wrong path.
