ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday emphasized the importance of boosting local businesses and economic activities to achieve self-sufficiency and foster inclusive, sustainable development in Gilgit Baltistan (GB).
During a meeting with GB Governor Syed Mehdi Shah and Chief Minister Gul Bar Khan, President Zardari highlighted the region’s significant hydroelectric potential, urging its capitalization for developmental purposes.
He also noted GB’s rich endowment of natural resources, including mining, gems, and minerals, advocating for their thorough exploration and development to enhance economic prosperity.
The GB governor and chief minister briefed President Zardari on ongoing development projects in the region and highlighted various challenges faced by the local people, such as inadequate education and healthcare facilities, and unemployment.
They also extended an invitation for President Zardari to visit GB and address the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.
President Zardari stressed the importance of implementing programs for the training and skill development of GB’s youth, aligning their skills with market demands.
He emphasized the need for accelerated infrastructure development in GB and emphasized strengthening the education and healthcare sectors to bring them on par with other developed regions of the country.
