Development of remote areas top priority: Faisal
By Adnan Rafique

ISLAMABAD—Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Northern Areas Makhdoom Syed Faisal Saleh Hayat on Thursday said that the government was according top priority to development of remote parts in Northern Areas.
The minister, who is also Chief Executive of Northern Areas, was talking to members of Northern Areas Legislative Council, Imran Nadeem, Muhammad Iqbal and Muzaffar Relay here.
Faisal said that people of Northern Areas were facing a number of problems because of lack of civic amenities and the government was focussing to remove the sense of deprivation among the masses.
He said that equal opportunities to the people living in various parts of Northern Areas would be ensured.
The minister said that it was being endeavoured to improve the road network so that all the areas had easy access.
Setting up of small industries in the area would be encouraged, so that people get employment opportunities. The minister said that he would try to get extra funds allocated for Astorte district. He urged the members to motivate people for enhancing productivity of their agricultural crops and fruits.
Faisal said that he had paid two visits to Northern Areas last month and would pay another next week.
The members told the minister that they were trying to project President Musharraf’s idea of enlightened moderation in the area.