Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engr. Amir Muqam, on Wednesday said addressing the issues of Gilgit-Baltistan was a top priority for the federal government and assured to apply their resources to advance growth and well-being in the region. Minister Muqam chairing a high-level meeting at the Gilgit-Baltistan Council highlighted the region’s vast potential to emerge as a premier global tourist destination. Additionally, he pointed out the area’s rich mineral resources and hydropower capabilities, vowing to harness these assets for regional development. Amir Muqam assured that issues faced by Gilgit-Baltistan’s traders would be resolved amicably in accordance with existing rules and laws, and that all stakeholders would be kept informed and involved.

The Federal Minister also promised that the federal government would provide substantial relief to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He announced that the issue of wheat provision had been addressed, with a subsidy on wheat now in place. The meeting was attended by Secretary Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Waseem Ajmal Chaudhary, Joint Secretary of the Gilgit-Baltistan Council, and representatives from the GB Importers and Exporters Association and GB Chambers. Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Abrar Ahmad Mirza, Home Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan, Secretary Law GB, and a representative from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) also participated in the meeting virtually.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan