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China Hosts Investment Conference Targeting Gilgit-Baltistan: A Push for Economic Influence in Disputed Territory

The Azadi Times
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China Hosts Investment Conference Targeting Gilgit-Baltistan: A Push for Economic Influence in Disputed Territory

Skardu, (PaJK): In a move that raises critical questions about sovereignty and self-determination, a three-day investment conference was recently organized in China under the “Border Trade Zone China” initiative, with participation from business representatives of Gilgit-Baltistan, a region internationally recognized as part of the disputed territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

Delegations from all district chambers of commerce in Gilgit-Baltistan took part, including high-level officials from the region’s business community and provincial ministers. The event, held under the banner of economic cooperation, facilitated direct engagement between Chinese investors and local business leaders. According to reports, several billion-rupee agreements were signed, setting the stage for Chinese investment in a range of sectors within GB.

The conference also emphasized China’s intention to provide tax exemptions for import-export activities conducted by communities residing along the border, part of a broader strategy to expand Chinese economic influence through the “Border Trade Zone Company.” Chinese authorities pledged to provide accommodation and commercial space for GB traders in Tashkurgan, signaling a long-term plan for deepening bilateral economic ties.

While economic development is welcome in any region suffering from neglect, the context of this initiative cannot be ignored. Gilgit-Baltistan, like the rest of Jammu & Kashmir, remains a territory under dispute as per multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. Any foreign investment or bilateral agreement involving GB — without the consent and participation of the people of Jammu & Kashmir — risks further entrenching foreign control and undermining the region’s right to self-determination.

Leaders from the Skardu Chamber of Commerce, including President Ashraf Hussain and businessman Abbas Numberdar, expressed hope that the partnership will bring economic growth to the region. However, grassroots voices and international observers alike have consistently raised concerns about external investments being used as tools of political influence in territories where the local population has no say in governance or international agreements.

It was also announced that four annual meetings between Chinese investors and GB chambers will be held — two in China and two within Gilgit-Baltistan — with the next summit scheduled in Hunza. These developments, while framed as economic cooperation, come amid increasing militarization and political marginalization in the region.

As an independent platform committed to the just and democratic resolution of the Kashmir dispute, we remind the international community that Gilgit-Baltistan is not a bargaining chip nor a frontier for proxy economic expansion. The region’s people must be the primary decision-makers in determining their political and economic future free from coercion, occupation, or economic manipulation.

Pakistan-administered Kashmir High Court Adjourns Hearing on PM Anwar-ul-Haq’s Legitimacy Until May 5

    The Azadi Times
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    Pakistan-administered Kashmir High Court Adjourns Hearing on PM Anwar-ul-Haq’s Legitimacy Until May 5

    Muzaffarabad: The High Court of Pakistan-administered Kashmir has postponed until May 5 the hearing of a constitutional writ petition challenging the election of Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq.

    A divisional bench of the High Court, comprising Justice Syed Shahid Bahar and Justice Sardar Muhammad Ijaz Khan, heard the preliminary arguments in the case titled Raja Muhammad Farooq Haider Khan vs. Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq and others. The petition was filed by former Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider Khan, contesting the legality of Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq’s appointment as Prime Minister.

    Representing the petitioner, advocates Sardar Javed Naz and Raja Ayaz Fareed began presenting arguments. However, during the proceedings, the bench remarked that the court would listen to both the petitioner and the Advocate General but emphasized the need for clarity on a key legal point: whether the electoral process can be challenged after the votes have been cast.

    The court announced that on May 5, it would deliberate on the admissibility of the constitutional petition—whether or not it meets the criteria for further proceedings.

    This hearing had originally been scheduled for April 7, but was postponed due to the retirement of Justice Mian Muhammad Arif, who was leading the previous bench. The petitioner’s legal team then requested the formation of a new bench, which was approved by the Chief Justice. The new bench was subsequently constituted, consisting of Justices Shahid Bahar and Muhammad Ijaz Khan.

    On April 16, the court issued notices to all parties to appear. Representing Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq, Advocate Sheikh Atiq ur Rehman submitted a power of attorney and requested additional time to file a formal response. The court granted one day for reply and scheduled the next hearing for April 17 (Thursday).

    The case has drawn widespread attention within political and legal circles in the region, as it challenges the legitimacy of the current government in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and could have broader implications for the region’s constitutional framework.

    Kashmir to Install Chairlifts at Key Tourist Destinations Under New Tourism Master Plan

    The Azadi Times
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    Kashmir to Install Chairlifts at Key Tourist Destinations Under New Tourism Master Plan

    Muzaffarabad, (PAJK): In a significant move aimed at enhancing sustainable tourism, the Government of Pakistan-administered Kashmir has announced the installation of chairlifts at four major scenic destinations: Ratti Gali, Baboon Valley, Arang Kel, and Taobat, all located in the picturesque Neelum Valley.

    Director General of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Tourism Department, Chaudhry Meherban, stated that a comprehensive Tourism Master Plan is in its final stages, focusing on structured development to boost the tourism sector while preserving natural beauty.

    Speaking during a recent three-day visit to Neelum Valley, DG Meherban emphasized that heavy-duty chairlifts will be installed in key locations to provide safe and scenic access to elevated tourist spots. He also highlighted the need for planned construction similar to popular tourist models in Gilgit-Baltistan and Naran-Kaghan to enhance visitor experience without compromising the landscape.

    “Currently, unregulated and scattered hut-style constructions are harming the natural aesthetics of these areas. We aim to reverse this trend through proper planning and infrastructure,” Meherban told media representatives in Taobat.

    Accompanied by Assistant Director of Tourism Khawaja Mushtaq Ganaie and Tourism Officer Chaudhry Lal Hussain, the DG inspected tourism guest houses in Keran, Upper Neelum, Sharda, Kel, and the Grace Valley.

    He reiterated that the government’s goal is to create job opportunities at the local level by promoting tourism as a viable economic sector. “Through this Master Plan, we are not just building infrastructure we are laying the foundation for a self-sustaining tourism economy in the region,” he said.

    The department also urged private investors and hospitality providers to shift focus towards medium to large-scale accommodations, suggesting the construction of units with 50, 60, or even 100+ rooms, as opposed to the current trend of small scattered huts.

    According to DG Meherban, the Master Plan will soon be approved, after which formal implementation will begin, transforming Neelum Valley into a more accessible and organized tourist destination.

    The initiative marks a strategic step by Pakistan-administered Kashmir’s authorities to position the region as a competitive eco-tourism hub, while preserving its breathtaking natural heritage.

    Farewell After Four Decades: Afghan Refugees Depart Kashmir Amid Tears and Tributes

    The Azadi Times
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    Farewell After Four Decades: Afghan Refugees Depart Kashmir Amid Tears and Tributes

    Muzaffarabad, (PaJK): As Pakistan intensifies its campaign to repatriate undocumented Afghan nationals, a wave of silent goodbyes is unfolding in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, (Azad Jammu and Kashmir) (AJK), where thousands of Afghan refugees have been living for decades. Now, as they are being asked to leave, heart-wrenching stories of separation, shared history, and solidarity are surfacing on social media.

    Among those bidding farewell was Aamir Khan, an Afghan national who lived most of his life in AJK. In a deeply emotional Facebook post, Khan wrote:

    “After forty years, we too have packed our bags for the journey home — Afghanistan. Our bond with Kashmiris has been one of shared pain, slavery, and suppression. Our childhoods were intertwined. But today, these artificial lines and imposed identities have separated us. We will meet again — in another world, in a classless human society. With a heavy heart, farewell friends, brothers, and companions. Remember us in your prayers.”

    The post resonated widely, being shared by many Kashmiri users who expressed solidarity and compassion for the departing refugees. It painted a poignant picture of the human cost behind political decisions and the decades of co-existence that have now been disrupted.

    According to local reports, hundreds of Afghan families in districts like Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Rawalakot are returning to Afghanistan as part of the nationwide expulsion policy. Some of these families had spent over 40 years in AJK, integrating deeply into the local fabric through work, education, and community life.

    Social media has become a mirror of these emotions. Images of the Afghan and Kashmiri flags being shared together have gone viral, symbolizing unity beyond borders and state identities. While the mainstream narrative remains focused on legality and repatriation, the grassroots response from the Kashmiri population has been largely empathetic and humane.

    In Afghanistan, temporary camps have been set up in border provinces such as Nangarhar to receive returnees. Authorities there claim to be offering basic facilities, though many families fear uncertainty, lack of livelihood, and security challenges in their ancestral land.

    The departure of Afghan refugees from AJK has sparked important conversations around identity, belonging, and the meaning of home. For many, it’s not just a physical journey — but the emotional closing of a chapter that spanned generations.

    Terror Threat Escalates in Kashmir as TTP Network Exposed: Interior Minister Warns of “Major Infiltration”

    The Azadi Times
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    Terror Threat Escalates in Kashmir as TTP Network Exposed: Interior Minister Warns of “Major Infiltration”

    Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir (Pakistan-administered Kashmir): Azad Kashmir’s senior-most Minister and Interior Minister Colonel (R) Waqar Noor has sounded the alarm over growing security threats in the region following the discovery of a major militant network allegedly linked to the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The warning came during a press briefing held after an in-camera cabinet meeting in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan administrated Kashmir where the Inspector General of Police Rana Abdul Jabbar briefed ministers on the evolving threat landscape.

    Speaking to journalists alongside key cabinet members, including Ministers Ch. Muhammad Rasheed, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, Akbar Ibrahim Choudhary, and Information Secretary Sardar Adnan Khurshid, Interior Minister Waqar Noor revealed that multiple militants had been apprehended across various locations in Azad Kashmir, and that two suicide bombers had already entered the region.

    “Azad Kashmir is under serious threat. A significant TTP network was recently dismantled, one that aimed to destabilize the peace of the region,” stated Noor.

    The Minister further disclosed that TTP has reportedly appointed its own “Governor” and regional leadership for Azad Kashmir, indicating a disturbing attempt by the group to establish a shadow administrative structure within Pakistan-administered territory.

    Weapons License Ban Lifted Amid Security Concerns

    In light of the heightened threat, the Azad Kashmir Cabinet has lifted a longstanding ban on issuing prohibited bore arms licenses. Government officials, legislators, senior officers, and other high-profile individuals who face credible threats may now apply for such licenses. Notably, ordinary citizens who can prove a risk to their lives may also be eligible.

    “Our priority is the protection of life and property,” said Interior Minister Noor. “Any citizen who faces a real threat will be allowed to arm themselves for self-defense.”

    He added that he had personally acquired licenses for two Kalashnikovs from the Ministry of Interior and would obtain more if necessary.

    Militant Network Planning Large-Scale Attacks

    Details emerging from the briefing suggest that a person apprehended with weapons near the Azad Pattan Bridge was part of a larger cell. According to intelligence, four additional individuals had entered the region separately with plans to regroup and carry out attacks.

    “Had our agencies not intercepted them, the outcome could have been catastrophic,” Noor stated.

    Officials confirmed that the network had been under surveillance, and law enforcement conducted targeted operations leading to arrests that likely prevented imminent acts of terrorism.

    Call for Unity and Vigilance

    The cabinet urged the public to understand the gravity of the situation and remain alert. “These threats go far beyond grievances over electricity or food subsidies,” said Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, adding that “elements exploiting public unrest are being funded by foreign enemies, similar to patterns seen in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”

    The ministers expressed concern over rising rhetoric involving terms like “non-state actors” and “non-state institutions.” Interior Minister Noor criticized the misuse of such terms:

    “My son is a Major in the Pakistan Army. He holds a State Subject Certificate of Jammu and Kashmir. Is he a non-state actor?”

    Noor highlighted the presence of over 25 Brigadiers, six Major Generals, and two Lieutenant Generals of Kashmiri origin serving in the Pakistan Armed Forces, emphasizing their role in defending the region.

    Opposing “Fitna al-Khawarij”

    Interior Minister Noor repeatedly referred to the infiltrators as part of “Fitna al-Khawarij,” a religious term often used to denote extreme militant offshoots. He urged citizens to work with authorities, share suspicious activities, and avoid falling for disinformation campaigns.

    “All institutions must be united on one page. We’re asking the Awami Action Committee and the people to grasp the seriousness of this moment,” he said.

    A Region on Edge

    As Azad Kashmir faces unprecedented security challenges, the cabinet’s decision to relax gun license restrictions marks a significant policy shift. The TTP’s strategic interest in this sensitive region already marred by political tensions and public unrest adds another layer of complexity to the geopolitical dynamics of Kashmir.

    While authorities claim that proactive steps have averted potential disaster, the presence of suicide bombers and a structured militant network point to a deeply concerning future. For now, the message from the state is clear: vigilance, unity, and preparedness are not optional—they are essential.

    Palm Sunday Celebrated in Kashmir with Active Participation of Muslim Leadership

    The Azadi Times
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    Palm Sunday Celebrated in Kashmir with Active Participation of Muslim Leadership

    Muzaffarabad, (PaJK): In the capital of Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, the Christian community celebrated their global religious festival, Palm Sunday, with devotion and reverence. A special prayer service and celebration were held at the local church in Muzaffarabad, attended by a large number of Christian families, children, and elders.

    Prominently, Muslim leadership from Muzaffarabad actively participated in the event. They visited the church to extend their warm greetings to the Christian community on their holy festival, delivering a powerful message of interfaith harmony, love, and brotherhood.

    The event was attended by notable figures, including Mayor of Muzaffarabad Municipal Corporation Syed Sikandar Nisar Gilani, former Chairman of the Development Authority and Chairman of Muzaffarabad City Development Foundation Zahid Amin Advocate, Secretary of Allotment Development Authority Muhammad Saleem Awan, DFA President Mehtab Mir, Councillor Umair Kayani, Chairperson of Workers Union Azad Kashmir Elder Riyasat Masih, Sonia Riyasat, Riaz Masih, and other political and social personalities.

    Christian community leaders expressed their pride in the participation of Muslim guests, emphasizing that Muzaffarabad offers equal religious freedoms to all communities, fostering a society bound by brotherhood and mutual respect.

    During the event, speeches were delivered by prominent leaders such as former Chairman Zahid Amin and Mayor Syed Sikandar Nisar Gilani. They reassured the Christian community and all minorities of their complete freedom in Azad Jammu & Kashmir to practice their faith, worship, and contribute positively to society, just like other citizens.

    The speeches also highlighted the invaluable contribution of sanitation workers in Muzaffarabad. Zahid Amin praised their efforts, stating, “Sanitation workers wake up before dawn to clean the entire city. You are our pride. Addressing your issues is the responsibility of the state, and we are committed to fulfilling this responsibility.” He also appreciated the provision of land for the construction of a church, acknowledging it as a commendable step toward ensuring religious freedom.

    Elder Riyasat Masih also expressed gratitude to the government of Azad Kashmir, particularly the former Chairman Zahid Amin, the Station Commander of the Pakistan Army, and other officials, for their efforts in fulfilling the Christian community’s longstanding demand for a place of worship. He emphasized that “We are all citizens of the same state, and we must stand by each other during festivals and moments of joy. Interfaith harmony is the path to progress and peace.”

    The event concluded with special prayers for religious tolerance, peace, and unity in the region.

    Bank of Azad jammu Kashmir to Approach State Bank of Pakistan for Schedule Status by June

    The Azadi Times
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    Bank of Azad jammu Kashmir to Approach State Bank of Pakistan for Schedule Status by June

    Muzzafarabad, (PaJK): Shahid Shehzad Mir, the President of Bank of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Bank, announced that the bank is set to approach the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) by June this year, with the goal of obtaining Schedule Bank status. This status will further elevate the institution’s role and functionality within the financial system, aligning it with major commercial banks in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

    In an exclusive interview with Kashmir Digital, a local media porta President Shehzad Mir emphasized the independence of the bank, stating, “Bank of Azad JammuKashmir Bank is the only bank that belongs to Azad Kashmir. Since I took charge as president, there has been no political interference. All appointments have been made strictly on merit.”

    Shehzad Mir dismissed concerns regarding employee exchange programs, clarifying that outsourcing companies were responsible for hiring, and no irregularities had been found in past procedures.

    To achieve Schedule Bank status, the President outlined three key conditions set by the State Bank of Pakistan. The first requirement is meeting an equity threshold of 10 billion PKR, for which the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government has assured that 250 million PKR will be provided.

    The second condition involves the development of operational systems and internal controls. According to Shehzad Mir, the bank has been working towards procuring the necessary systems but has not yet been able to purchase the software it requires. However, he reassured that the bank plans to approach the State Bank by June to meet the conditions and finalize the application for Schedule Bank status.

    Addressing the software procurement, he revealed that the bank had been in talks to purchase a Malaysian-made software system, a project worth 7.5 billion PKR, which has already undergone committee investigations. The project is now on track for a final agreement within the next week.

    Shahid Shehzad Mir further highlighted the bank’s substantial contribution to the financial ecosystem in Azad Kashmir, particularly in terms of remittances from overseas Kashmiris. “Kashmir Bank has consistently been the leading recipient of remittances from expatriate Kashmiris. Last year, the bank recorded the highest remittance inflows into Azad Kashmir, which underscores the trust and reliance of the overseas Kashmiri community on our services.”

    Since its inception, Kashmir Bank has continued to show resilience and growth. Shehzad Mir shared that the bank now operates 87 branches across Azad Kashmir, and its assets have grown from 28 billion PKR to over 53 billion PKR. The bank’s performance stands as a testament to its efficient operations and dedication to strengthening the local economy.

    Looking ahead, Shehzad Mir emphasized the bank’s commitment to social sector development, stating, “In the next 3 to 4 years, Kashmir Bank will play a crucial role in fostering development in the social sector.”

    As the only significant financial institution operating in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Kashmir Bank’s efforts to achieve Schedule Bank status are expected to further consolidate its position in the financial sector, both in Azad Kashmir and the broader Pakistani banking landscape. However, it is important to note that despite its efforts to grow and evolve, Kashmir Bank is still the sole public sector bank in the region, with no private or independent banking options available to the people of Azad Kashmir outside of this institution.

    The bank’s aspirations for further growth and its focus on expanding its operations signify a pivotal moment in the region’s financial sector, which remains an integral part of the broader discourse surrounding Kashmir’s economic autonomy within the context of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

    The outcome of the bank’s push for Schedule Bank status will likely have a significant impact on the financial future of Azad Kashmir, shaping the region’s banking landscape for years to come.

    16 Judges Transferred and Appointed in Kashmir: Aram Habib Appointed in Patkah Nasirabad

    The Azadi Times
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    16 Judges Transferred and Appointed in Kashmir: Aram Habib Appointed in Patkah Nasirabad

    Muzzafarabad, (PaJK) April 15, 2025: The Chief Justice of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) AJK High Court has approved the transfer and appointment of 16 civil judges. Among them, Aram Habib Raja has been appointed as the new civil judge in Patkah Nasirabad.

    According to a notification issued by the Registrar of the High Court, civil judge Syed Burhan Haider Gardezi has been transferred from Hajira and appointed as the civil judge in Chaddohi. Civil Judge Zahoor Elahi from Samahni has been transferred to Civil Judge Court No. 1 in Rawalakot, while Civil Judge Saima Nazir has been appointed to Civil Judge Court No. 2 in Muzaffarabad.

    Other significant appointments include civil judge Yasar Altaf, who has been transferred from Sehnsa to Plandri, civil judge Muhammad Saqir Khan, who has been moved from Rawalakot Court No. 1 to Hajira, and civil judge Farheen Aziz, who has been shifted from Sehnsa to Rawalakot Court No. 2.

    The notification further details the reassignment of several other judges, including Khuram Nazir Abbasi, who has been transferred from Court No. 2 in Muzaffarabad to Court No. 1, and Babar Ali, who has been moved from Tararkhal to Court No. 2 in Kotli. Additionally, Judge Atif Jamil has been appointed to Samahni, while Gohar Rahman will take charge of the Tararkhal court, and Sahrish Imtiaz has been transferred to Fatah Pur Thikiala from Brinala.

    In addition to these transfers, Judge Muhammad Usman Tahir has been assigned to Chaddohi, and Judge Syed Mazhar Kazmi has been moved from Patkah to Court No. 4 in Muzaffarabad. Judge Rizwan Ahmed will replace Judge Farheen Aziz in Brinala, while Judge Rafiq will be transferred from Court No. 4 in Muzaffarabad to Court No. 1 in Kotli.

    The notification states that these newly appointed judges will assume the responsibilities and powers of their predecessors. They have been instructed to report to their new posts within three days, with the changes being implemented immediately.

    This reshuffle represents an ongoing effort to streamline the judicial administration in Azad Kashmir, ensuring better distribution of judicial resources and improving service delivery for the citizens. The shift also underscores the commitment to maintaining an efficient and responsive judiciary in the region says political analyst Ahsan Ullah to The Azadi Times.

    Rawalakot Safe City Project: Phase One Completed Says DIG Sardar Zaheer Ahmed

    The Azadi Times
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    Rawalakot Safe City Project: Phase One Completed Says DIG Sardar Zaheer Ahmed

    Rawalakot, PaJK: DIG Poonch Division, Sardar Zaheer Ahmed, announced the completion of the first phase of the Safe City Project in Rawalakot, aimed at enhancing public safety and combating crime. Speaking to journalists, DIG Ahmed revealed that 25 cameras have been installed across strategic entry and exit points of the city as part of this initiative.

    The Safe City Project is anticipated to be a game-changer for Rawalakot city of Pakistan administered Kashmir, addressing crime prevention and traffic management issues. The cameras are equipped with advanced capabilities to monitor traffic incidents, road accidents, and disputes in real time, ensuring swift response from the authorities.

    AI-Powered Surveillance Cameras

    DIG Ahmed highlighted that the installed cameras are Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based and perform multiple functions simultaneously. These include facial recognition, license plate reading, and National Plate Recognition (NPR). For instance:

    • If a suspect’s image is uploaded to the database, the system will immediately alert authorities when the individual comes within the cameras’ range.
    • Similarly, stolen vehicles listed in the database will be flagged if detected by the system, enabling quick recovery.

    Additional features include vehicle and motorcycle counting, detailed traffic flow statistics, and the ability to assess individuals’ emotional states, such as anger, happiness, or distress, based on facial expressions.

    PTZ Cameras for 360-Degree Monitoring

    The project also incorporates PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras capable of 360-degree monitoring to track movements in surrounding areas. In this first phase, 25 cameras have been installed at nine key locations, comprehensively covering Rawalakot city.

    Expansion Plans for the Next Phase

    The next phase of the Rawalakot Safe City Project will involve the installation of 150 additional cameras, further enhancing the district’s surveillance capabilities. DIG Ahmed described the initiative as a “game-changer,” promising a significant improvement in public safety and law enforcement.

    Police Facilitation Center: A Milestone for Public Services

    DIG Ahmed also noted the successful operation of the Police Facilitation Center in Rawalakot, inaugurated on June 3, 2024. The center consolidates multiple public services under one roof, eliminating the need for citizens to visit police stations for routine matters. Services provided include:

    1. Character Certificates for residents, including those living abroad through embassies.
    2. General Police Verifications.
    3. Vehicle Verification Service (VVS).
    4. Driving Learner Permits.
    5. Legal guidance for victims of domestic violence.
    6. Online FIR copies.
    7. Assistance with lost documents.

    Since its launch, the center has issued over 8,100 character certificates, 4,427 general police verifications, and 3,600 learner driving permits. The VVS has processed the online verification of 88 vehicles. Additionally, the center provides legal support to women facing domestic violence and ensures the timely delivery of FIR copies.

    A Model for Future Safety and Civic Services

    The Rawalakot Safe City Project and the Police Facilitation Center represent significant advancements in public safety and service delivery in Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir. These initiatives underscore the potential for technology-driven governance to address pressing urban challenges effectively.

    DIG Sardar Zaheer Ahmed expressed optimism about the project’s future phases, which aim to create a safer and more efficient living environment for the residents of Rawalakot and surrounding areas.

    Pakistan Government Approves International Airport in Kashmir After Overseas Kashmiris Demand

    The Azadi Times
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    Pakistan Government Approves International Airport in Kashmir After Overseas Kashmiris Demand

    Srinagar, Kashmir: In response to longstanding demands from overseas Pakistanis, the federal government has decided to build an international airport in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) Pakistan administrated Kashmir. The move comes after pressure from Kashmiri-origin British parliamentarians, who recently wrote to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urging the project’s approval.

    Earlier, a letter from UK lawmakers to PM Sharif surfaced, backing the call for improved air connectivity in the region. Following directives from Islamabad, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has now invited bids from consultancy firms to advance the airport project. Officials state that qualified consultants can participate in the tender process as per standard procedures.

    Overseas Kashmiris’ Convention Begins in Islamabad

    Meanwhile, the first annual Overseas Kashmiris Convention is set to begin today in Islamabad, aimed at recognizing the diaspora’s contributions to Pakistan’s economy. Attendees have been granted the status of state guests, reflecting the government’s emphasis on engagement with expatriates.

    The convention will serve as a platform for dialogue between overseas Pakistanis, government representatives, and national institutions. Help desks from various departments have been set up to provide guidance and services under one roof.

    In a video message, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing expatriate concerns. “This is the first time such a convention is being held, and we welcome the input of overseas Pakistanis in shaping policies,” he said.

    Minister of State Aoun Chaudhry praised the diaspora’s economic role, stating, “Overseas Pakistanis’ hearts beat for Pakistan.”

    While the airport project is framed as a development initiative, Kashmiri voices remain skeptical. For decades, infrastructure projects in AJK have been tied to Pakistan’s geopolitical interests rather than local aspirations. The region, claimed by both India and Pakistan, remains entangled in the broader Kashmir conflict, where genuine self-determination remains elusive.

    If constructed, the airport could boost travel and trade, but critics argue it may also deepen Pakistan’s administrative grip on the territory. For Kashmiris advocating independence, true progress lies not in symbolic projects but in addressing the unresolved political status of the entire Kashmir region—a demand often sidelined in Islamabad’s policies.

    As overseas Kashmiri community celebrate their influence, Kashmiris continue to question whether such initiatives serve their right to autonomy or merely reinforce the status quo.

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