Finland envoy visits Gojal, Hunza

by Zulfiaqr Ali Khan

Hunza, October 05: The ambassador of Finland in Pakistan, Osmo Lipponen praised the remarkable role of the community-based organizations in implementation of different innovative projects for the socio-economic benefits of the communities in the high mountain villages. He was visiting the projects of Aga Khan Building and Planning Service (AKBPS) in Gulmit and Shishkat villages of Upper Hunza. He was accompanied by a contingent of officials from the Finland embassy and AKBPS.

The ambassador visited different projects of Building and Construction Improvement Programme (BACIP) and Water and Sanitation Extension Programme (WASEP) and held discussions with the local communities. The ambassador also visited a model house of BACIP in Gulmit and discussed with the owner about the benefits of different products installed in his house.
The ambassador also participated the presentations of Gulmit Organization for Local Development, Al-Amyn Model School and Gojal Rural Support Organization. They requested the ambassador and WASEP for support in sanitation project and extension of water scheme in Gulmit.

Mr. Osmo applauded the self-help initiatives of the local community in provision of modern co-education facilities in this far flung area. He assured his support in implementation of different projects. During the visit of Gulmit Carpet Center, the ambassador applauded this local intervention for women empowerment through income generating activities.

In the end, the ambassador also visited the Aga Khan Health Center and received a detailed briefing.