GILGIT: Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Haji Gulbar Khan, has said that Gilgit-Baltistan is an ideal region for investment compared to other parts of the country. It is the most peaceful region in Pakistan and offers vast opportunities for investment in key sectors such as power, minerals, agriculture, and tourism.
He made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation of the United Business Group (UBG), led by S M Tanveer. He said the government is providing every possible support to investors and has undertaken significant reforms to promote investment. A Board of Investment has been established, and the Public-Private Partnership law has been enacted.
He added that work is progressing rapidly on the development of industrial and economic zones, and a one-window facility for investors will be introduced soon. Major infrastructure projects are currently under construction to improve transportation, including the Gilgit-Chitral Expressway, Skardu-Astore Road, and Darail-Tangir Expressway.
To permanently resolve the province’s power crisis, both short-term and long-term policies are being implemented. He mentioned that efforts are underway to complete the Prime Minister’s announced 100-megawatt solar power project in a short timeframe. In addition, several other large-scale power projects are also under construction.
The construction of an international airport in Skardu has significantly increased both domestic and international tourism to Baltistan. The government is also working towards constructing an international airport in Gilgit and is inviting major investors to support the initiative.
On the occasion, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Information Technology Muhammad Ali Quaid, Chairman of the Board of Investment Fatehullah Khan, Provincial Secretary for Tourism, Provincial Secretary for Agriculture, and Additional Secretary for Minerals provided a detailed briefing on investment opportunities in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Speaking at the event, UBG leader S M Tanveer commended the Chief Minister’s vision for promoting investment, stating that the future of Gilgit-Baltistan looks bright. He said the steps taken by the provincial government are encouraging large investors to turn their attention to the region. UBG will play its part in supporting the construction of an international airport in Gilgit. He also emphasized that land reforms introduced by the provincial government are a crucial initiative that will help eliminate barriers to investment.
Secretary General of UBG, Zafar Bakhtawari, highlighted that the expansion and modernization of Gilgit Airport is essential for the development and promotion of investment in the region. He pointed out that limited flights and frequent cancellations at the airport discourage potential investors. Upgrading Gilgit Airport to accommodate larger aircraft—similar to Skardu Airport—would not only enhance tourism but also strengthen the local economy.
Zafar Bakhtawari cited the example of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce, which successfully established its own airport and airline through a public-private partnership. He suggested that a similar model could be implemented in Gilgit-Baltistan. He urged both the government and private sector to collaborate in upgrading Gilgit Airport to promote investment and tourism in the region. He also noted that during Ahsan Bakhtawari’s tenure as president of the chamber, he led a large delegation to Gilgit-Baltistan, which significantly boosted tourism in the area.
