Sacrifices of Gilgit-Baltistan people part of our shared history: President Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the courage and sacrifices of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and their decision to accede to Pakistan are an important part of our shared history.

He said that providing the people of the region with better roads, schools, health facilities, energy and jobs should be among our priorities.

In a message on the 79th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan, the President congratulated the people of the region. He paid tribute to those who took part in the historic struggle against Dogra rule.

He said that 79 years ago the people of Gilgit-Baltistan ended Dogra rule and declared independence. They then wrote to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to seek accession to Pakistan.

The journey of reforms

The President said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto began reforms in Gilgit-Baltistan in 1972. Under these, the FCR and the feudal system were abolished, and changes were made to the administrative and judicial structure. In 1974, Hunza, Nagar and other princely states were abolished and the administrative system was made more coherent.

Later, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto carried the reforms forward through the Legal Framework Order of 1994. In 2009, during the PPP government, an order was introduced to empower Gilgit-Baltistan and give it self-governance.

He said Gilgit-Baltistan holds exceptional importance because of its direct border with China, its natural resources and its strategic location. For the progress of ordinary families, quality schools, hospitals, jobs for young people and access to markets for farmers and small businesses are essential.

The President said the region’s mountains, glaciers, rivers and cultural heritage are national assets. He said the protection of the natural environment must be ensured along with the promotion of tourism.