On May 7^th , 2025, Mr. Zameer Abbas, Secretary Tourism and Culture, Gilgit-Baltistan, delivered an engaging lecture to the participants of 37^th SMC on “Peculiarities of Politics-Administrative Arrangements & Governance in Gilgit-Baltistan”. He discussed the history of Gilgit-Baltistan with focus on the political and administrative setup.

Mr. Zameer Abbas spoke of the challenges faced by Gilgit-Baltistan with regards to its Constitutional status that even though it is not a province it is administered as a province. Gilgit-Baltistan also faces the challenge of sectarian divide between various sects, predominantly between Shia and Sunni sects; but in recent years there has been no major sectarian incident due to political reforms and local interventions which gives hope for the future.

Mr. Zameer Abbas said that the natural beauty, high peaks and unique landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan are very attractive for tourists, both foreign and domestic. If the administration of Gilgit-Baltistan explores the potential of tourism and invests in tourism related infrastructure a lot of revenue can be generated.

Mr. Zameer Abbas extrapolated that the pristine environment and natural topography of Gilgit-Baltistan along with its linguistic and ethnic diversity is its strength, and an opportunity for promoting soft image of Pakistan.