Islamabad, November 1, 2025: President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday said that Gilgit-Baltistan’s (GB) independence serves as a reminder of the unfinished struggle of their brothers and sisters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Addressing a ceremony marking the 78th anniversary of GB’s independence from Dogra rule, the president said the people of the region had stood shoulder to shoulder with the rest of Pakistan for more than seven decades.
“You have guarded our borders, driven progress, and carried Pakistan’s flag to the world’s highest peaks,” Zardari said. “This region is not only the crown of Pakistan but also our northern gateway — a symbol of our enduring friendship with China.”
The president said the Karakoram Highway stood as a “living testament” to this partnership, while the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had created new opportunities for livelihoods, trade, and connectivity across the region.
He emphasised that it was a collective responsibility to ensure the dividends of development reached every valley and village, fostering shared prosperity for all.
Zardari highlighted that Gilgit-Baltistan had consistently offered the best of itself — to both the nation and the wider world — and urged renewed commitment to transforming the region into a “model of development, justice, and equality.”
“While you enjoy liberty and rights under the flag of Pakistan, our brothers and sisters across the border continue to face occupation and repression,” the president said. “We stand with them until they achieve freedom in line with the UN Security Council resolutions and their aspirations.”
Expressing his delight at the warm welcome, Zardari said GB felt like home to him and paid tribute to the people’s bravery and sacrifices. He also noted that successive governments led by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had always prioritised the progress and prosperity of the region.
The event was attended by the GB governor, chief minister, members of the legislative assembly, military and civil officials, and a large number of locals.
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the people of Gilgit-Baltistan on their Independence Day, lauding their bravery, unity, and patriotism.
He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the region’s development, highlighting ongoing projects in tourism, energy, infrastructure, and education.
“The people of Gilgit-Baltistan will be provided every opportunity to play an active role in the national mainstream,” the prime minister said, adding that the day serves as a reminder to continue the journey of freedom, unity, and progress with renewed energy.
The premier concluded by praying for peace, prosperity, and development for Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan.
