Inauguration of Gilgit-Muzaffarabad Bus Service Restores Historic Ties Between Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan

MUZAFFARABAD: (Azadi Times) – On the historic occasion of Pakistan Day, the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Tanvir Ilyas Khan, and the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Barrister Khalid Khurshid, inaugurated the Gilgit-Muzaffarabad Bus Service. This initiative aims to restore and strengthen the historical connections between the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The inauguration ceremony was held at the New Prime Minister House in Muzaffarabad, with Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid as the chief guest. The event was attended by prominent officials including Gilgit-Baltistan Interior Minister Shamsul Haque, various ministers from the Azad Kashmir government, and a large number of government officials, lawyers, and civil society members.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Sardar Tanvir Ilyas Khan highlighted the significance of Pakistan Day, recalling the passing of the Pakistan Resolution in 1940. He emphasized the importance of the new bus service in restoring ties between the two regions, enhancing cultural, social, and economic linkages, and boosting industry and tourism.

Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid echoed these sentiments, noting that the bus service will reduce distances and promote harmony between the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. He assured that the government would provide all necessary facilities to visitors from Azad Kashmir.

The Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir announced several initiatives to foster collaboration between the regions, including increased quotas for Gilgit-Baltistan students in Azad Kashmir’s educational institutions, mutual investment in transport companies, and the establishment of a special economic zone. He also proposed the introduction of yaks, found only in Gilgit-Baltistan, to the upper areas of Azad Kashmir for farming.

The event also saw an exchange of traditional gifts, with the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan presenting a Karvaati Jabba and Cap to the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir. Both leaders expressed hope that this renewed connection would be sustained by future generations, benefiting both regions through shared experiences and resources.

Parliamentary Secretary Transport Azad Kashmir Javed Butt, in his address, praised the efforts of both leaders in launching the bus service. Secretary Transport Authority Chaudhry Mukhtar Ahmad confirmed that all necessary arrangements had been made to ensure the success of the Gilgit-Muzaffarabad bus service, which is expected to strengthen ties and promote mutual cultural understanding between the regions.