No terror incident in G-B after 2013, says CM

ISLAMABAD [APP]: Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman on Sunday said the PML-N government through its effective and prudent policies has been able to ensure the overall peace and unity in Gilgit-Baltistan region.

He said not a single incident of terrorism has occurred in the region since its coming to power after 2013 general elections.

Addressing a seminar here he said “that GB had cultural, linguistic, religious diversity and we can change it into an opportunity through unity.” He said after the implementation of National Action Plan, Gilgit-Baltistan has become far more peaceful though in the past sectarian divides created by certain elements.

He said that with the construction of Karakoram Highway, people of GB came out this far-off and cut-off region and now after completion of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the region would progress by leaps and bounds in the years ahead.

HE said that the present government of GB was striving day and night to change the destiny of the people of the GB region. Citing the example of surge in tourist activity, he said that this year over 600,000 tourists have visited GB while during past 12 years only 70,000 tourists came to GB.

HE said that present government was working to provide four road links with the people of country. HE said that 1400 teachers have been appointed in GB on merit and about 1400 more vacancies of the teachers would be filled through FPSC.

He said that during next few months, biometrics system would be introduced in all public sector offices of GB. The GB CM announced that auction of G-3 mobile service would be held in the region soon and Gilgit people would enjoy free Wifi facility.

GB Minister for Women Development and Youth Affairs Sobia Muqaddam said that future of the GB would be bright as the present government has introduced several steps to bring this area at par with the developed ones. She said that special steps were being taken for the empowerment of the women of the GB.

GB Construction Minister Dr Muhammad Iqbal said that the present government was working to end the sense of deprivation among the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. Special musical performances by the folk singer including Salman Paras, Jabir Khan Jabir and Kashif Balti were highlight of the function.