Gilgit-Baltistan officials have proposed allowing Chinese nationals to enter the region without visas as part of a broader plan to boost tourism and economic development.
The proposal was presented to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and newly elected Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain on Monday during a high-level briefing on the region’s development challenges and opportunities.
Officials said the proposal would mirror the existing travel arrangement that allows Gilgit-Baltistan residents to visit China’s Xinjiang region.
The meeting was also attended by former Gilgit-Baltistan governor Qamar Zaman Kaira.
During the briefing, officials urged the construction of an international airport in Gilgit. They also called for immediate steps to end prolonged electricity load-shedding and address the growing shortage of subsidized wheat.
Officials told the meeting that visa-free entry for Chinese visitors could significantly increase tourism and strengthen economic activity in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Speaking at the meeting, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed his commitment to Gilgit-Baltistan’s development and assured participants of his full support for efforts to strengthen the region’s economy, improve infrastructure and promote tourism.
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