Key points
- CPEC, Karakoram Highway bring opportunities for Gilgit-Baltistan
- Zardari expresses solidarity with IIOJK’s struggle
- Shehbaz Sharif vows continued development for Gilgit-Baltistan
ISLAMABAD: On the 78th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan from Dogra rule, President Asif Ali Zardari called for a renewed collective resolve to make the region a model of development, justice, and equality. Speaking at a ceremony marking the occasion, the president praised the people of Gilgit-Baltistan for their unwavering support to Pakistan over the last seven decades.
“You have guarded the borders, advanced the progress and carried the flag of Pakistan to the world’s highest peaks. This region is not only a crown of Pakistan but also our northern gateway; a symbol of lasting friendship with China,” Zardari said, emphasizing the importance of the region to Pakistan’s security and economic development.
Highlighting the significance of the Karakoram Highway and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Zardari stressed that these initiatives had brought new opportunities in trade, connectivity, and livelihood for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. “It should be our collective task that its dividends reach every valley and village, creating shared prosperity for all,” he added.
Extending heartfelt congratulations
The president also expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), saying, “While you enjoy liberty and rights under the flag of Pakistan, they continue to face occupation and repression. We stand with them till they get freedom in accordance with the UNSC resolutions.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan on their Independence Day, commending their courage and unity in gaining freedom from Dogra rule on 1st November 1947. He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the region’s development through ongoing projects in tourism, energy, infrastructure, and education.
“We are determined to ensure a better future for the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan,” the Prime Minister said, wishing for peace, prosperity, and development for the region.
