China eyeing Gilgit Baltistan

Europe, March 26: China is eying Gilgit Baltistan, a region of immense geo strategic significance. Pakistan is currently considering a proposal to lease the region to Beijing for 50 years. According to the U.S. based think tank Middle East Media Research Institute, the Pakistani move is aimed at cementing its all weather relations with China following the irreparable rupture in ties with US. The decision to launch the Pakistan China Strategic Programme for Gilgit Baltistan was probably taken during army chief Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani's visit to China in January 2012, said a report titled "Pakistan's Deteriorating Situation, Strained Relations with America: Deliberation on Leasing Gilgit Baltistan to China for 50 years .