AJ&K President Sardar Masood Khan has said Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K) is enriched with natural beauty and the present government is focusing on sound infrastructure and foolproof security of tourists.
He was talking to the newly appointed Chief Secretary to Azad Kashmir, Mian Waheeduddin, who called on him here on Friday. The president underlined the need for the investment in skill development and participation of private sector in economic activities in Azad Kashmir to help enhancing job opportunities for youth and pave the way for growth of businesses.
The president highlighted the importance of key economic sectors, including an all-weather modern road network, macro and micro hydro-power projects and promotion of tourism in all parts of Azad Kashmir.
The president said the political leadership of Azad Kashmir was determined to transform AJ&K into a modern and developed state. In this regard, he highlighted the importance of the key economic sectors including an all-weather modern road network, macro and micro hydropower projects, promotion of tourism in all parts of Azad Kashmir, and development of mines and minerals sectors, floriculture, horticulture and telecommunications.
"The private sector and skill development together will create an environment for assimilation of a new generation of workforce and professionals coming out of the educational system in Azad Kashmir," he said.
Masood said now when the development budget of Azad Kashmir had been increased substantially and the emphasis would be on streamlining the procedures for expedited implementation of various projects so that tangible results could be demonstrated within the yearly development budget cycle and foundation for multi-year projects be laid.
The president said Azad Kashmir is moving to a higher platform of economic performance and it is the vision of the leadership to transform Azad Kashmir into a model state, in collaboration with the government of Pakistan.