A leading Pakistani social development and policy adviser has said the vast geography and natural endowments have become a political nemesis for the people of Balochistan.

In his column published in The News International, Amir Hussain said: "Balochistan with its rich natural endowments and vast geographical location can help long-term development in Pakistan."

"The province can become the hub of national economic growth through trade with Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia and the Persian Gulf countries," he said.

He said the government of Balochistan should embark upon developing district development strategies through consistent engagement with local stakeholders, IBNS reported.

"District development strategies will pave the way for an overdue process of engagement of all stakeholders to crowd in their resources and strategic investments to help build a better Balochistan," he said.

"There needs to be a comprehensive provincial development strategy for Balochistan which outlines the key areas of investment for inclusive growth and provides the roadmap for integrated development in the province. The provincial development strategy should highlight the fundamentals of impact-oriented community driven development and local action for poverty alleviation," he said.