GB Finance Minister Abrar Ismail Holds “Zoom Meeting” with Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal on ADP, PSDP Funds

Independent Report
Islamabad, February 19, 2026: Gilgit-Baltistan Caretaker Finance Minister Abrar Ismail held a key “Zoom Meeting” with Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal to discuss socio-economic challenges and development priorities of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Abrar Ismail highlighted financial constraints, resource gaps, and the need for stronger federal support. He emphasized inclusion of Gilgit-Baltistan in national policy-making to ensure equitable resource allocation and sustainable development.
A major point of discussion was the inclusion of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan’s National Poverty Mapping framework to enable data-driven planning and fair distribution of funds. The Finance Minister also sought enhanced allocations in the upcoming Annual Development Programme (ADP) and Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
Ahsan Iqbal assured that the proposals would be considered at relevant forums and pledged increased funding support, including additional PSDP allocations for key projects such as Naltar to accelerate development across the region.