President Zardari calls for support to IIOJK on GB's Independence Day ceremony

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday said that as Gilgit Baltistan marks its 78th Independence Day, the region's freedom highlights the ongoing struggle of their brothers and sisters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Speaking at the commemorative ceremony, he emphasised that over the past seven decades, the people of Gilgit Baltistan have remained steadfast and stood in solidarity with the rest of Pakistan.

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The president also reviewed the parade.

“You have guarded the borders, advanced the progress, and carried the flag of Pakistan to the world’s highest peaks. This region is not only a crown of Pakistan but also our northern gateway; a symbol of lasting friendship with China,” he added.

The president said the Karakorum Highway is a living memento to this partnership, adding that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had brought new opportunities of livelihood, trade, and connectivity for the people of GB.

He further emphasised that it should be their collective task that its dividends reach every valley and village, creating shared prosperity for all.

The president opined that the region offered the best to the rest of the country and to the world at large.

President Zardari said that the freedom of the Gilgit Baltistan people also reminded them of the unfinished journey of their brothers and sisters in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

“While you enjoy liberty and rights under the flag of Pakistan, they continue to face occupation and repression. We stand with them too till they get freedom in accordance with the UNSC resolutions and their aspirations,” he added.

President Zardari also expressed his pleasure at witnessing the affection and love of the gathering and said that the region is like a home to him.

He said the history of the region had been marked with incidents of unforgettable bravery and sacrifices.

The president mentioned that the PPP governments had always focused on the progress and prosperity of the region.

The event was attended by the governor, chief minister, members of the legislative assembly, military, civil officials, and a large number of people.

Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the people of Gilgit Baltistan on the occasion of their Independence Day.

He praised the bravery, unity, and patriotism of the people and 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,” he said, adding that the day is a reminder to continue the journey of freedom, unity, and progress with renewed energy.

The prime minister concluded by praying for peace, prosperity, and development for Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan.