Gilgit (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday urged a renewed national commitment to turning Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) into a model of development, justice, and equality.
Addressing a public gathering to commemorate the 78th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan from Dogra rule, he said that for over seven decades, the people of the region had marched in step with the rest of Pakistan.
President Zardari commended their unwavering contributions in protecting the country’s frontiers, promoting national progress, and raising Pakistan’s flag on the world’s highest peaks.
Describing Gilgit-Baltistan as the “crown of Pakistan” and the “northern gateway” symbolizing lasting friendship with China, he noted that the Karakoram Highway stood as a living testament to that bond.
President Zardari added that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had unlocked new possibilities for trade, employment, and connectivity in the region and stressed that its benefits should extend to every village and valley, ensuring shared prosperity.
He said the area offered unmatched natural beauty, immense resources, and tremendous tourism potential, not only for Pakistan but for the world.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, the president reminded the audience that the freedom of Gilgit-Baltistan also recalled the ongoing struggle of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
While the people of GB enjoyed liberty and rights under Pakistan’s flag, he said, their Kashmiri brethren continued to endure occupation and oppression.
The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for their right to self-determination in line with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and their aspirations.
The ceremony was attended by the governor, chief minister, members of the legislative assembly, senior civil and military officials, and a large number of citizens.
President Zardari expressed gratitude for the warmth and affection of the crowd, saying Gilgit-Baltistan felt like home to him.
He paid tribute to the region’s legacy of courage and sacrifice and recalled that successive Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) governments had always worked for the area’s uplift and well-being, focusing on better education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Speaking on the occasion, GB Chief Minister Gulbar Khan lauded the patriotism and peaceful spirit of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and said that the recent success in Marka-e-Haq had added to the joy of the Independence Day celebrations.