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GIlGIT, Nov 26 (APP): Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has emphasized the need for expediting the ongoing development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan. He said that Pakistan’s economic indicators are steadily improving and the country’s economy is now moving in a stable direction, compared to the brink of collapse it once faced.
Addressing the top bureaucracy of Gilgit-Baltistan at the Chief Secretary’s Office, the minister credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for putting the economy back on track. He said political stability is essential for sustainable development, and that global uncertainties can only be navigated through collective effort.
Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan has the potential to reach a $3 trillion economy, provided that key sectors receive focused attention. “We must enhance our exports at all costs. Technology is advancing rapidly and we need to build our technological capabilities to prepare our youth for future jobs,” he stressed. He added that development is impossible without tackling climate challenges, calling for greater focus on energy, green infrastructure, health, and social development.
Earlier, Additional Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Mushtaq Ahmed briefed the minister on the progress of various PSDP-funded projects, including the 16MW Naltar and Henzel power projects, the 100MW solar power project, DANISH School, Engineering Project KIU Gilgit, Sky Project Gilgit, Nagar Highway, Gilgit–Chitral Expressway, upgradation of PHQ Hospital Gilgit and updating of the Gilgit Medical College.
Ahsan Iqbal urged the authorities to accelerate work on these schemes, stating that their timely completion would pave the way for new avenues of development in Gilgit-Baltistan. He assured that any hurdles in the execution of these projects would be promptly addressed by the federal government.