Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived on Thursday in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) for a day-long visit. He met with political leaders and addressed the AJK cabinet.
This was the premier’s first visit to the region after violent protests erupted over high electricity tariffs and wheat prices. Anwarul Haq, Prime Minister of AJK, welcomed Shehbaz at the helipad.
Shehbaz assured that his government, in collaboration with AJK leadership, would ensure the implementation of mutual understanding. They will seek a permanent solution to the issues facing the Kashmiri people after the IMF team’s visit.
Referring to the recent rights movement in AJK, the PM acknowledged the people’s genuine demands. However, he noted that some miscreants tried to incite riots and violence.
He expressed condolences for the deaths of civilians and police personnel during the protests and announced support for the bereaved families under the Shuhada Package.
Addressing the special AJK cabinet meeting, Shehbaz asked his counterpart to establish a committee. This committee will consult with relevant Pakistani ministries on issues like water charges and Neelum Jhelum.
He instructed authorities to complete the construction of the Mangla Phase-2 bridge. Regarding Neelum Jhelum, Federal Secretary Water Syed Ali Murtaza and Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam will discuss solutions with Kashmiri leaders.
The premier also acknowledged President Asif Ali Zardari, Minister Amir Muqam, AJK PM, Speaker of AJK Legislative Assembly, AJK Chief Secretary, and IG Police. He praised their roles in finding immediate solutions to the people’s demands.
