ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan on Friday held a meeting to discuss infrastructure development, tourism promotion, and ongoing relief efforts in the region.
According to a statement issued by the Finance Ministry, the meeting built on Senator Aurangzeb’s recent visit to GB, during which he reviewed the flood situation and assessed the allocation of federal funds for relief and rehabilitation.
The finance minister praised progress in road infrastructure and growing investments in tourism, highlighting GB’s immense natural beauty and potential for tourism-driven growth.
He stressed the importance of responsible investment, underscoring strict compliance with building regulations and environmental protections, particularly in waste and water management, to safeguard the fragile ecosystem.
Aurangzeb urged the GB government to explore new revenue-generation avenues and called for stronger development of airports, roads, and tourist facilities. He noted that package tourism could be especially appealing for visitors from Gulf countries.
Chief Minister Gulbar Khan briefed the minister on the province’s ongoing initiatives, reporting that Skardu International Airport has been receiving significant passenger traffic, while plans are underway to upgrade Gilgit Airport to international status to further attract tourists.
He thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the federal government for their continued focus on GB’s development needs. Gulbar also shared plans to enhance public services across GB’s 10 districts by expanding staff capacity and introducing improved career progression opportunities for senior officials in the GB Secretariat.
