Goverwnor and Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan call on President Asif Ali Zardari

Islamabad,: The Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Syed Mehdi Shah and the Chief Minister of GB, Gul Bar Khan, called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today.

During the meeting, the two informed the President about the development projects being undertaken by the government of GB. They also apprised the President about various issues being faced by the people of GB, particularly the lack of education and health facilities, and unemployment. They also requested the President to visit GB and address the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly.

Highlighting the potential of the area, the President said that GB had enormous hydroelectric potential that needed to be capitalized upon for its development. He said that GB was blessed with abundant natural resources, including mining, gems, and minerals, which should be fully explored and developed to bring economic prosperity to the area.

The President underlined the need to initiate programs for the training and skill development of GB’s youth to equip them with employable skills as per market demand. He said that steps should also be taken to promote local businesses and economic activities to make GB self-sufficient, besides promoting inclusive and sustainable development in the area.

The President called for accelerating infrastructure development in GB as well as focusing on strengthening the education and health sectors to bring it at par with other developed areas of the country.