On the occasion of 73rd Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan, Prime Minister Imran Khan said the government is focusing on development of all backward areas of the country.

He was addressing the Azadi Parade ceremony on Sunday and said that the government has decided to give provisional provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan keeping in view UN Security Council resolutions.

Imran Khan said a strong army is indispensable for a country to protect its sovereignty and solidarity.

He said the Gilgit Scouts liberated this region by rendering sacrifices of their lives.

The premier further added Modi-led Indian government has been working on Hindutva agenda and they have introduced discriminatory laws against Muslims in India.

The Prime Minister said our armed forces are successfully fighting terrorism and extremism in the country which is being supported through a planned conspiracy of enemy.

Earlier, the Caretaker Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Mir Afzal Khan, while addressing the ceremony paid tribute to armed services for unprecedented sacrifices for the motherland.

He said armed forces of Pakistan rendered lives for the security of the country.

The Caretaker Chief Minister also paid tribute to martyrs of Gilgit Baltistan who sacrificed their lives for independence.

He said that incumbent federal government is making serious efforts to bring this region in mainstream.

He also criticized the irresponsible statements of opposition leaders against state institutions.

Moreover, upon his arrival at Gilgit-Baltistan, the Prime Minister is accompanied by Federal Minister for Water Resources Faisal Vawda, other ministers and officials during his visit.

He will also review the development work on Diamer Bhasha Dam and visit Astore National Park.

The Prime Minister and GB interim chief minister will pay a visit to Yadgar-e-Shuhada and lay floral wreath on the graves at the monument of martyrs.