Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari has highlighted the importance of investment in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) as a key to the socio-economic development of the region. During a meeting with members of the GB Council at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the President emphasized the potential for economic prosperity through targeted infrastructural and educational enhancements.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the discussions focused on the developmental and financial needs of GB, with President Zardari assuring the delegation of his commitment to improving local infrastructure such as health, education, and roads. He also noted the strategic importance of expanding Gilgit’s airport and exploring new developmental avenues to fully capitalize on GB’s economic potential, particularly its pivotal geographical position as a gateway to China.
The meeting, which was attended by the Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and GB, Engineer Amir Muqam, Chief Minister GB, Mr. Gulbar Khan, and other senior officials, also addressed the discontinuation of the Sehat Sahulat Programme, which had previously provided health insurance services to the region’s residents. President Zardari proposed integrating this health initiative with the Benazir Income Support Programme to ensure continued medical benefits for the people of GB.
Further, the President promised to address the issue of compensation for the affectees of the Diamer-Bhasha dam at an appropriate forum, recognizing the need for timely and adequate remediation for those impacted by infrastructure projects.
The delegation expressed gratitude towards President Zardari for his active involvement and support in addressing the region’s challenges and ensuring the continued development of Gilgit-Baltistan.