GILGIT: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday paid tribute to the martyrs of Gilgit-Baltistan and said no force can stop the people of Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) from attaining their freedom.
Addressing the 72nd independence day celebrations in Gilgit-Baltistan, the premier reiterated Pakistan’s support for the people of the occupied region, adding that he is the ambassador and spokesperson for the Kashmiris and will plead their case at every forum.
Criticising Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the premier said his counterpart in New Delhi has played his “last card” by revoking special status of occupied Kashmir, adding that once the draconian curfew is lifted, the people would take to streets in protest against the Indian government.
Paying tribute to the struggle of thousands who sacrificed their lives for the country, the premier noted that if Gilgit had not fought the war against the Dogra regime, they too would be suffering Indian oppression today.
“I congratulate the people on this Independence Day as they fought a war to win their freedom,” said the premier who earlier visited the graveyard of the martyrs of the war of independence.
The premier also appreciated the beauty of Gilgit, adding “I’ve seen the whole world but the beauty in Gilgit-Baltistan I’ve never seen anywhere”.
Referring to the steps taken by the government to promote tourism in the country, he said visa requirements for the citizens of seventy countries have been abolished and expressed confidence that tourism in the country will flourish.
PM Imran also said the region would benefit from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as it serves as a gateway to the multi-billion project.
