The National Dialogue on Pakistan’s Permacrisis successfully took place in Quetta at the Governor’s House.
The event attracted over 200 thought leaders, political figures and prominent women from Balochistan, such as Zubaida Jalal and Raheela Durrani.
The highlight of the event was an exclusive 60-minute interview with Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, who joined the session virtually. The Chief Minister shared his insights on addressing Balochistan’s pressing challenges and the importance of inclusive development in the region.
The event was divided into three key sessions:
1. Exclusive Session with CM Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, Moderated by Asif Ullah Khan (Oxon), this session featured a comprehensive dialogue on the political and developmental trajectory of Balochistan.
2. The second session was on informal Economy and Human Development exploring viable solutions for Balochistan’s economic and human development needs. The discussion offered perspectives on fostering growth through informal economic channels and improving human development indices in the province.
3. The final session was on Pakistan’s Natural Wealth and Industries of the Future focusing on leveraging Balochistan’s natural resources and identifying future industries to drive sustainable growth.
The event was lauded by participants and the local community as a significant step toward national integration and harmony. It aimed to foster dialogue on solutions for Pakistan’s recurring crises, particularly in regions like Balochistan, which have untapped potential for national development.
The Quetta segment is part of a series of dialogues being organised by the Oxford University Alumni of Pakistan.
The next segment will be held in Lahore on October 12, 2024, at the Governor House, continuing this important national conversation with local representation.
A renowned band from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Khumaryam, gave a live musical performance at the event’s closing.
The dialogue was well attended by 23 Oxford Alumni members from across Pakistan. The Oxford University Alumni of Pakistan is committed to extending this dialogue series to other provinces to have constructive discussions to achieve national progress and sustainable development.