Finance Minister Urges Gilgit-Baltistan Government to Explore New Revenue-Generation Avenues

Islamabad: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has urged the Gilgit-Baltistan government to explore new revenue-generation avenues. He was speaking with Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, during the meeting, the Finance Minister emphasized the importance of developing airport and road infrastructure, as well as tourism spots, to promote package tourism, especially targeting visitors from Gulf countries. Muhammad Aurangzeb stressed the need for responsible investment with strict adherence to building regulations and environmental laws, particularly in waste and water management, to preserve the local ecosystem.

The Minister reflected on his recent visit to Gilgit-Baltistan and addressed the ongoing flood situation and related relief efforts, including the release of federal funds. He acknowledged the progress made in road infrastructure and investments in tourism, noting the region’s immense natural beauty and potential for tourism-led growth.

Chief Minister Gulbar Khan informed the Minister about the ongoing infrastructure development efforts. He highlighted that Skardu International Airport is attracting significant traffic, and there are plans to upgrade Gilgit Airport to international status to further boost tourism. Gulbar Khan also discussed the Gilgit-Baltistan government’s plans to enhance public services across its ten districts by increasing staff and offering improved career progression opportunities for senior officers in the GB Secretariat. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the federal government for their continued focus on the region’s needs.