A delegation of US based foreign investment company named True North has expressed its keen interest in tourism sector of Gilgit Baltistan. A detailed briefing in this connection was arranged here in Islamabad today. The briefing session was chaired by the Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan Ali Amin Khan Gandapur. Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Mr Iftikhar Durrani and Governor Gilgit Baltistan Raja Jalal Hussain Maqpoon also attended the briefing session. Secretary of Tourism department Gilgit Baltistan gave a detailed briefing regarding potential of tourism sector in GB. Secretary tourism highlighted the diverse natural features, biodiversity, adventure sports and culture of Gilgit Baltistan. The delegation was also briefed regarding data of tourists visiting the area and investment opportunities in this regard .The Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Khan Gandapur welcomed the delegation and said that there was huge opportunity for the foreign investors to benefit from tourism sector especially in Gilgit-Baltistan. He said that investment environment in Gilgit-Baltistan is very conducive. He said that Gilgit-Baltistan is a tax free zone and is a gateway to China and has gained immense importance because of China Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) project. The Minister said that a special economic and industrial zone is also being set up in Gilgit-Baltistan. Underlining the importance of communication and access roads of the area, the Minister said that Skardu Gilgit road is being upgraded. The government is also making progress regarding funds for construction of Gilgit Chitral Road. Moreover government also plans to upgrade Skardu Airport in coming year financial budget, so it could be used for international flights he added. Highlighting the importance of connectivity between AJK and GB, the Minister said that government is also working on this important project. He also highlighted the potential in different areas of tourism like skinning, wildlife and hoteling sectors of Gilgit-Baltistan. The Minister assured the foreign investors that they will be provided with all possible facilities and government would go an extra mile in facilitating the foreign investors. He hoped that the delegation of foreign investors visiting Gilgit Baltistan would benefit from the investment opportunities located in the area. The delegation expressed its deep satisfaction regarding investment opportunities. The members of the delegation said that the natural and cultural diversification of the area has really impressed them. They said that they would love to work in Pakistan as it carried a huge potential and future especially in tourism sector. The Minister once again assured of his cooperation and said that the proposed investment would not be helpful in developing the tourism sector of Gilgit-Baltistan but it would also provide employment opportunities for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. *****
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