PM Shehbaz reaffirms commitment to development of GB, AJK

Gilgit (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s resolve to ensure rapid development in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK).

He made these remarks in a ceremony in Gilgit on Thursday.

During his visit, the prime minister inaugurated a number of uplift projects and also performed groundbreaking ceremonies for several new initiatives planned for the region.

PM Shehbaz assured residents that the federal government would extend full support and provide all available resources to help overcome the challenges being faced by Gilgit-Baltistan.

Speaking about education, PM Shehbaz announced that four Daanish Schools are being launched in the area.

He said the institutions would offer free schooling facilities along with meals and uniforms for students.

The premier further stated that the schools would be equipped with modern educational tools, including smart boards and digital libraries, to improve the standard of learning.

Referring to the 100-megawatt solar energy initiative, PM Shehbaz directed the relevant authorities to ensure the project is completed by the middle of next year.

The prime minister also underlined that merit has always remained a key principle in his policies.

He said the laptops distributed among students and the business and agriculture loan cheques issued under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme were awarded strictly on merit.

PM Shehbaz said that the laptop scheme was meant to recognise the hard work and academic dedication of young people rather than serve as a favour.

Touching on regional developments, the prime minister said that Pakistan played a significant diplomatic role in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

The prime minister expressed the confidence that the truce would remain effective for a long period and help establish sustainable peace across the region, adding that Pakistan’s contribution would be remembered positively in history.