Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed government officials to expedite federal development initiatives in Gilgit-Baltistan while ensuring the prompt disbursement of funds, according to reports. This administrative push highlights ongoing sensitivities surrounding the region, which is claimed by India as an integral part of its territory and sits along the contentious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Sharif issued these directives during a high-level meeting in Islamabad to evaluate the advancement of development work in the area, which shares a border with China. The session included participation from Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain and focused heavily on clearing bureaucratic and logistical hurdles.
During the meeting, officials reviewed the status of various hydropower, infrastructure, and solar energy initiatives. Sharif specifically urged the early finalization of a federally backed 100-megawatt solar power project for the region. Discussions also covered the China-funded Naltar power project and regional digital infrastructure installation, with the prime minister calling for consistent oversight of energy sector undertakings.
State-run media indicated that Sharif also reviewed findings from a committee established in July to examine ongoing federal projects, identify bottlenecks, and recommend solutions for timely execution. Reports suggested he was scheduled to travel to the region following the review.
Gilgit-Baltistan remains strategically vital due to its placement along the CPEC trade route, which connects China's Xinjiang region to Pakistan's Gwadar port. India has consistently rejected infrastructure development and transit projects passing through territories under Pakistan's control, maintaining that Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh are inalienable parts of the nation and demanding the vacation of occupied areas.