Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday arrived in Azad Jammu and Kasmir (AJK) for a day-long visit to meet the political leadership and address the members of the AJK cabinet.

This is the first visit by the premier to the region after it was rocked by violent protests over high electricity tariffs and wheat prices.

Prime Minister of AJK, Anwarul Haq, welcomed Shehbaz at the helipad upon his arrival.

Addressing the presser today, Shehbaz said “Almighty has bestowed Kashmir with unparalleled natural treasures. Unfortunately, we have not planned, shown commitment, or put in the effort to preserve these treasures in 76 years”

On Monday, Shahbaz ordered the immediate release of Rs23 billion to resolve the problems of AJK, envisaging massive subsidies on flour and electricity tariffs.

Yesterday, PM AJK Anwarul Haq appreciated the premier’s swift response to the demands of protesters and announced a huge financial package despite economic constraints.

Read AJK situation comes to national spotlight

A meeting with the Hurriyat leaders of Jammu and Kashmir and a briefing on the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project is expected during the visit.