By Junaid Qaiser
Nations are more than just lines on a map; they thrive on a shared sense of purpose, mutual respect, and leaders who are ready to work together in tough times. When provinces encounter security challenges, development disparities, or political unrest, the real test of our democracy is how leaders come together to respond. This unity is a constitutional must. When provinces unite, the federation grows stronger; when they pull apart, the strain is felt everywhere.
Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s trip to Quetta to meet Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, highlighted that provinces aren’t just isolated administrative units. They are interdependent pillars of a common constitutional framework. If one pillar is under pressure, the stability of the whole structure is compromised. While meetings between chief ministers are often seen through a political lens, their true value lies in reinforcing cooperative federalism. Following the 18th Amendment, provinces gained significant autonomy, which was meant to empower local governance, not to foster fragmentation. With increased authority at the provincial level, there must also be improved coordination among the provinces.
Balochistan is grappling with a mix of serious security challenges and ongoing development needs. In such times, gestures of solidarity hold significant meaning. The recent announcement of financial aid for security forces, along with commitments of administrative support, highlights that terrorism and instability are not just provincial issues; they are national concerns. No province can afford to treat another’s crisis as something far removed.
The tone of engagement is just as crucial. Acknowledging the resilience and sacrifices of the people in Balochistan is important. Trust within a federation is built not just through financial transfers and policy frameworks, but also through political respect. When leaders openly state that they stand “shoulder to shoulder,” it reinforces a shared national narrative. At the same time, collaboration should extend beyond immediate security issues.
Moreover, cooperation should go beyond just addressing immediate security issues. The establishment of a pediatric cardiology center in Quetta is a step towards a broader model of collaboration that focuses on human development. Areas like healthcare, education, and building institutional capacity are where provinces can learn from each other, share knowledge, and work to bridge the gaps that have historically led to resentment.
Chief Minister Bugti’s emphasis on unity within Balochistan — across government and opposition — complements this spirit. Democratic systems mature when political actors compete electorally but converge on fundamental priorities such as peace and public welfare. Inter-provincial harmony strengthens that process further.
Of course, symbolism alone does not solve entrenched issues. Commitments must translate into sustained policy coordination. Financial packages must lead to measurable outcomes. Dialogue must become routine, not exceptional. The federation works best when consultation is institutionalized rather than event-driven.
However, there is reason to see value in such moments. Pakistan’s federal design was intended to accommodate diversity while preserving unity. When provincial leaders engage constructively, they breathe life into that design. They demonstrate that autonomy and unity are not contradictory — they are complementary.
Building a federation that truly works together isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s a gradual process that unfolds through consistent cooperation, shared responsibilities, and a genuine acknowledgment of one another. If we keep this spirit alive—beyond just visits and announcements—it can really enhance our democratic practices and bring the nation closer together.
Ultimately, Pakistan’s stability relies not just on having strong provinces, but also on fostering solid relationships among them. That’s what makes a federation truly effective.
