Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam has expressed the resolve to fast-track development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan, harness the region's mineral resources, and prioritize its progress.

Addressing a news conference alongside former Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Hafiz Hafeez-ur-Rehman, and MNA from Kohistan Muhammad Idrees in Gilgit today, he expressed appreciation for the warm reception in Gilgit-Baltistan.

He pledged to increase the capacity of the Hanzel Hydropower Project to 40 MW as a significant step towards the region's progress.

The Minister said that the government has solved the issue of provision of wheat to Gilgit-Baltistan and funds will also be allocated to provide a subsidy on wheat for the next year.

Underlining the tourism prospects of Gilgit-Baltistan, he emphasized its status as a prime tourist destination. He said directives have been issued to the Chief Secretary and other officials to expedite ongoing development projects.

Expressing concern over frequent flight cancellations causing inconvenience to the populace, Engineer Amir Muqam announced plans to request Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the deployment of C-130 aircraft.

He said initiatives are in progress to secure constitutional rights for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, including the appointment of judges to the Supreme Appellate Tribunals.He said that traders involved in Pakistan-China trade will receive support and have their concerns addressed.

The Federal Minister commended the people of Gilgit-Baltistan for not participating in the conspiracy to disrespect the martyrs on May 9, 2023, stating that such abhorrent acts could not be committed by true patriots.  He emphasized the nation's admiration for its armed forces and assured that those responsible for the events of May 9 would be brought to justice.

Earlier, Engineer Amir Muqam, in a meeting with Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan Gulbar Khan, agreed on the importance of improving coordination between the Gilgit-Baltistan government and the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan.

In their meeting, they extensively deliberated on the security status in Gilgit-Baltistan, budgetary concerns, ongoing development initiatives, and the provision of wheat to the region.

The Federal Minister stated his intention to engage with pertinent authorities to address the economic challenges facing the region.

A luncheon was also organized in honor of Engineer Amir Muqam, during which Provincial Ministers also met with the Federal Minister.

Chief Secretary Gilgit Baltistan, Additional Chief Secretary and Inspector General Police also briefed the federal Minister regarding various development projects.