This was supported in Geneva by Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa, senior fellow at the department of war studies, King’s College, London.
Speaking last night she said Pakistan was treating Balochistan in the same way that it had treated Bangladesh – by looting its resources in return for violence and terror.
“Balochistan is resource-rich, and has Asia’s largest mine in Saindak, which produces mainly copper. It is a magnet for investment, mainly by China but also the US, which is also vying to create mega projects.
“But the Baloch people gain very little from this. Balochistan was promised 7% from the China-Pakistan Economic corridor, which is worth £20bn. They have received just £150m.
“More than 70% of Pakistan’s exports come from eastern Pakistan, but less than 30% of its imports go there.
“With only a sham democracy, the security apparatus knows who will rule and ensures it is the right person.”
Those who oppose the system are “disappeared”, she added.
“There has been a change over the 15 years. Now, those who voice opposition include middle class professionals – educated men and women such as engineers and even doctors,” she said.
“Pakistan has a huge problem the it comes to Kill & Dump – troublesome people just disappear – and Balochistan is no exception,
“These stark human rights violations must stop.”
Balochistan is divided among three countries, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. It is Pakistan’s largest province, and accounts for 7 million people.
