Gwadar: Govt, protesters reach agreement, sit-in ends in CPEC hub

Gwadar: Pakistani government has placated the protesters in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) hub Gwadar after accepting their legitimate demands.

The protesting fishermen in Gwadar called off their month-long sit-in after successful talks with the government.

Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, who was leading the protest, announced to end sit-in after an agreement was signed with the Balochistan provincial government under the directions of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The agreement was signed by Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Qudus Bizenjo and Provincial General Secretary Jamaat Islami (JI) Maulana Hidayatur Rehman.

The JI leader had previously clarified that the protest was for their rights not against CPEC or China. He underscored that his party supported the CPEC and China’s role in Pakistan’s development.

The development came after federal ministers Asad Umar and Zubaida Jalal alogn with Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo arrived at the protest venue to hold negotiations.

Multiple rounds of talks were held after which an agreement was reached between Rehman and the Chief Minister.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Imran Khan had taken notice of the ongoing protest of the fishermen in Gwadar, Balochistan.

In his tweet PM Imran Khan said: “I have taken notice of the very legitimate demands of the hardworking fishermen of Gwadar. Will be taking strong action against illegal fishing by trawlers and will also speak to CM Balochistan.”

The PM later directed federal ministers Asad Umar and Zubaida Jalal to travel to Gwadar and resolve the issue.