A proposal to allow Chinese nationals to enter Gilgit-Baltistan without visas, mirroring the existing travel arrangement that allows G-B residents to visit China’s Xinjiang region, was presented to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and newly elected Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain on Monday as part of a broader plan to boost tourism and economic development.

The proposal came during a high-level briefing on Gilgit-Baltistan’s development challenges and opportunities, attended by Bilawal, the chief minister and former Gilgit-Baltistan governor Qamar Zaman Kaira.

Officials also urged the construction of an international airport in Gilgit, immediate steps to end prolonged electricity load-shedding and measures to address the growing shortage of subsidised wheat.

Officials told the meeting that allowing Chinese visitors to enter Gilgit-Baltistan without visas, just as G-B residents are permitted to travel to China’s Xinjiang region under the existing arrangement, could significantly boost tourism and strengthen economic activity.

Addressing the meeting, Bilawal pledged full support for Gilgit-Baltistan’s development.