Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed that Pakistan’s national progress cannot be complete without the development of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the government’s commitment to equitable growth across all regions.
Speaking at a major development ceremony in Gilgit, the prime minister inaugurated and launched multiple initiatives, including renewable energy projects, education reforms, security systems, and youth empowerment programs.
A key highlight of the visit was the inauguration of a 100-megawatt solar power project aimed at addressing electricity shortages in the mountainous region. The government also initiated the distribution of 58MW worth of free solar panels to domestic and commercial consumers through a transparent digital balloting system, benefiting thousands of applicants.
In addition to energy initiatives, the prime minister laid the foundation stones of four Daanish Schools in Sultanabad, Bunji, Ghanche, and Skardu. These institutions are designed to provide high-quality education to underprivileged children, with modern facilities such as smart classrooms, e-libraries, boarding, and free meals. Special emphasis was placed on ensuring free education for girls.
The government also expanded security infrastructure by inaugurating the Safe City Project in Gilgit (Phase-II) and announcing a similar project for Skardu. The prime minister directed authorities to ensure that these systems meet or exceed the standards of major urban centers.
Youth empowerment remained a central focus of the visit. Under the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, laptops were distributed to high-performing students, while cheques were handed out under business and agriculture loan schemes to support entrepreneurship and economic growth.
The prime minister praised the resilience and determination of the youth in Gilgit-Baltistan, emphasizing that these initiatives were based strictly on merit and aimed at providing equal opportunities.
During his address, he also highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and stability, mentioning recent diplomatic efforts in international conflicts and reaffirming the country’s commitment to constructive engagement.
The visit included meetings with local leadership, where discussions focused on development progress, administrative matters, and law and order. Officials noted that these projects would significantly improve living standards and expand access to energy, education, and economic opportunities in the region.
Overall, the initiatives signal a comprehensive push toward sustainable development and inclusive growth in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK.
