President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the freedom of occupied Jammu and Kashmir is the need of the hour, emphasizing that Gilgit-Baltistan’s people wrote a glorious chapter of history by waging jihad in 1947 and voluntarily joining Pakistan.
Speaking at the ceremony marking Gilgit-Baltistan’s liberation from Dogra rule, President Zardari praised the courage and sacrifices of the region’s people. “Your bravery will never be forgotten by history. In 1947, you fought valiantly and joined Pakistan after a great struggle. Around 1,700 of your brave sons laid down their lives in that war,” he said.
The President highlighted the need for education, healthcare, and development across the region. “Every valley of Gilgit-Baltistan should have schools and hospitals. The region is rich in minerals and natural resources. These mountains are our shared treasure. We must also promote tourism here, and I believe Gilgit-Baltistan deserves to have its own airline,” Zardari stated.
He also shed light on the dire human rights situation in India and occupied Kashmir. “In India, the persecution of Muslims continues unabated. The genocide of Kashmiris has reached its peak. The freedom of Jammu and Kashmir is no longer a choice but a necessity. The people of the occupied territory have been suffering under Indian oppression for decades,” he added.
President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the progress and prosperity of Gilgit-Baltistan, noting that its advancement would directly contribute to the nation’s overall development. “We want to see Gilgit-Baltistan as prosperous and advanced as our other provinces. When Gilgit-Baltistan prospers, Pakistan prospers,” he asserted.
Referring to economic cooperation and regional connectivity, the President said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) symbolizes Pakistan’s economic progress and partnership with China. “China is our trusted friend and partner. The second phase of CPEC is progressing successfully and will bring further growth to Gilgit-Baltistan and the rest of the country,” he said.
President Zardari concluded his address by expressing hope that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan would continue to play a key role in strengthening Pakistan. He reiterated that the government would ensure the region’s inclusion in the country’s development journey.
