China eyeing Gilgit-Baltistan

China is eyeing 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 US-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”.