Pakistan has faced a tense time at the UN. For just as the annual General Assembly session was getting underway — a protest organised by the Baloch took place outside the world body headquarters. Of course, calls for the realisation of fundamental human rights should never be viewed by the state as an embarrassment. Or, indeed, as an attempt to sully the country’s image on the international stage. For seeking the global spotlight signals a breakdown of the social contract. Thus it is hoped that the new set-up will view it as such and decide to tackle the matter head-on; by way of dialogue. After all, in the run-up to the elections Imran Khan played a positive role in standing with the Pashtun youth as they demanded their rights. The same must be done for the Balcoh. This is especially important at a time when Pakistan is all set to highlight once more the gross human rights abuses suffered by those living in Indian-held Kashmir. Back at home, Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani has requested China’s help to harness the immense potential of CPEC to transform the province’s youth into a skilled and technically competent workforce. Such a move is to be welcomed. Though the CM must be mindful that relying on infrastructure projects alone is not sufficient to change a province’s entire fate. Admittedly, in the short-term such enterprises bring with them a boost in employment. But as has been witnessed in the Punjab, particularly over the last decade, this is no substitute for sustainable development. What is therefore needed is investment in access to resources; including healthcare and clean drinking water. This has to be across the board and across class. Underpinning this must be a concerted effort to tackle sectarianism while improving the security situation. And then there remains the question of Balochistan reaping the profit of its mineral-rich land. In short, Pakistan can only be at peace with its neighbours when it achieves internal harmony. And while Khan has five years to try and address Baloch grievances – the hard work towards this end must start now. * Published in Daily Times, September 26th 2018.