Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Haji Gulbar Khan, urged the need to facilitate small traders within the legal framework while ensuring that no illegal activities are supported by the government of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Speaking at a high-level meeting on Pak-China trade and Sost Dry Port, he emphasised that China is a reliable and friendly country for Pakistan, and there is a need to take concrete measures to further strengthen trade relations between the two nations.
He highlighted that a significant portion of the population in Gilgit-Baltistan depends on Pak-China trade for their livelihood due to the absence of a private sector and limited employment opportunities. Many locals are directly or indirectly reliant on cross-border trade.
The Chief Minister directed the formulation of a structured policy in consultation with all stakeholders to promote legal trade activities.
The Collector of Customs and other officials present at the meeting stated that a special policy to boost Pak-China trade will be finalised in the coming days with input from all stakeholders and will be presented to the relevant forums. This policy will ensure that local traders receive maximum support while staying within legal boundaries.
The meeting was attended by Special Assistant to the Chief Minister, Muhammad Ali Qaed, the Collector of Customs, the Provincial Secretary for Home Affairs, and other senior officials.
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