Federal govt focusing on GB as part of tourism strategy: President Alvi 

GILGIT BALTISTAN: President Dr. Arif Alvi has said Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) is the shining face of Pakistan and the federal government was focusing on the region as part of its tourism strategy.

Addressing a gathering in Shigar Valley during his ongoing five-day visit to Gilgit Baltistan (GB), President Alvi said, “PM Imran wants to bring the enlightened, moderate and progressive face of the GB before the world.”

He said the government aims to preserve, protect and present the potential of the region to the world while seeking tourists’ attention towards the untouched beauty of the area.

Admitting that the people of the area are still deprived of their basic fundamental rights guaranteed in the constitution, Arif Alvi assured the people that it is the topmost priority of Premier Imran to empower the people GB.

Referring to the strategic location of the region, he said, “People of the region are defense shield of Pakistan and their sacrifices for the country are written in the history with golden words.”

President Alvi said humanity is above religion and our Holy Prophet (PBUH) was a champion of human rights who gave a message of love for humanity. The problems and challenges, people face were temporary and a passage to a brighter future, he added.

The residents were hopeful of improvement of business activity following the opening of the tourism sector which was closed down owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

President Alvi listened to people’s stories during their struggle against COVID-19 pandemic who also shared their concerns over livelihood, mainly generated through tourism.

He also assured the people that their business activity would return to normalcy after lifting of COVID-related restrictions.

He also discussed the status of facilities provided for disabled people in GB. The president mixed up with the people who thanked him for visiting them to boost their confidence.