GILGIT – Officials in Gilgit-Baltistan have proposed allowing Chinese Nationals to enter the region without a visa. The proposal is part of a wider plan to increase tourism, strengthen economic activity, and improve regional development.
The proposal was presented during a high-level meeting attended by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and newly elected Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain. Senior officials briefed the participants on the region’s major development challenges and future opportunities.
According to officials, the proposed arrangement would follow an existing travel system that allows residents of Gilgit-Baltistan to visit China’s Xinjiang region under a special travel mechanism. They said a similar facility for Chinese Nationals could improve cross-border tourism and encourage greater economic cooperation.
Former Gilgit-Baltistan Governor Qamar Zaman Kaira also attended the meeting. Officials used the opportunity to highlight several urgent issues affecting the region’s development.
During the briefing, officials called for the construction of an international airport in Gilgit. They said improved air connectivity would make the region more accessible for international visitors and investors.
The participants also discussed the need to resolve prolonged electricity load-shedding. Officials stressed that reliable power is essential for tourism, businesses, and local communities. They also raised concerns about the growing shortage of subsidized wheat and urged immediate action to address the issue.
Officials explained that allowing Chinese Nationals to visit Gilgit-Baltistan without visas could significantly increase tourist arrivals. They believe more visitors would benefit hotels, transport services, restaurants, and local businesses across the region.
The proposal is also expected to support trade and create new economic opportunities. Officials said stronger people-to-people connections could help deepen cooperation between Pakistan and China, particularly in border areas.
Speaking during the meeting, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Gilgit-Baltistan. He assured participants that he would support initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, expanding tourism, and strengthening the regional economy.
Bilawal also emphasized the importance of addressing long-standing public issues. He said better infrastructure and improved public services would help unlock the region’s full economic potential.
The proposal for visa-free entry has not yet been approved and remains under consideration. If implemented, it could become an important step toward increasing tourism and encouraging closer regional cooperation.
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Officials believe the initiative would not only attract more Chinese Nationals but also contribute to long-term economic growth. They say the proposal forms part of broader efforts to make Gilgit-Baltistan a more attractive destination for visitors and investment.
