Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the development of Gilgit-Baltistan, announcing the formation of a special committee headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to review proposals submitted by members of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly and help accelerate development initiatives in the region.
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The announcement came during a meeting in Islamabad with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmakers from the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly. The discussion focused on public welfare, infrastructure development, and measures aimed at improving economic opportunities and living standards across the region.
Addressing the delegation, the prime minister said the people of Gilgit-Baltistan had consistently demonstrated their patriotism and commitment to Pakistan. He stressed that elected representatives play a vital role in communicating the needs and priorities of the public, enabling the government to formulate policies that directly benefit local communities.
Shehbaz Sharif said the federal government was prioritising projects related to infrastructure, transportation, energy, education, healthcare, tourism, and employment generation. He added that the region’s natural resources, tourism potential, and mineral wealth would be utilised to strengthen the local economy and create sustainable growth opportunities.
The prime minister also highlighted the government’s focus on youth development through quality education, modern technical training, and improved employment prospects. He said four cadet colleges in Gilgit-Baltistan were nearing completion and were expected to begin academic activities next year. He further noted that work on a 100-megawatt solar energy project was progressing rapidly.
Referring to climate-related challenges, Shehbaz Sharif said an early warning system had been installed in the region to help communities prepare for glacier-related hazards and reduce the impact of natural disasters.
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To ensure better coordination between the federal and regional governments, the prime minister directed the establishment of a special committee led by Ishaq Dar. The committee, which will also include Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Affairs Amir Muqam and Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, will evaluate practical recommendations submitted by lawmakers and present a report for further action.