GILGIT-BALTISTAN: President Asif Ali Zardari addressed the 78th Independence Day celebrations of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), on Friday.
Addressing the event, President highlighted Gilgit-Baltistan’s historic contributions in Pakistan’s development.
President also brought Indian Illegal Occupied Jammu Kashmir (IIOJK) issue to light. He condemned India’s henious actions in IIOJK. He said that Kashmiris have suffered prolonged oppression and that the situation has reached the brink of genocide.
Expressing his affection for GB, Zardari said, “Gilgit-Baltistan is my home, and your bravery will never be forgotten. In 1947, you fought for Pakistan, with 1,700 of your youth martyred in that historic struggle.”
He highlighted past reforms, noting that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto abolished the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR), and his government provided Gilgit-Baltistan with a legislative assembly. He emphasized the importance of education, infrastructure and tourism.
During his addressing Zardari also pointed out the region’s rich mineral resources and potential for development. “GB contributes crucial in Pakistan’s development. The region is rich of precious mineral resources,” President added.
He suggested that Gilgit-Baltistan should have its own airline and described the mountains as a shared national asset. He also underscored the significance of CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor), calling China a trusted partner and saying that Phase Two of the project is progressing successfully. “If Gilgit-Baltistan develops, Pakistan develops,” he said.
During the ceremony, the Governor and Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan welcomed the President Zardari. He was presented with a traditional cap and conducted an inspection of the parade, marking the region’s historic contribution to Pakistan’s independence.
