evidence: Gilgit-Baltistan A region in conflict Gilgit-Baltistan is part of the Kashmir region, which is disputed by India and Pakistan. An estimated 1.8 million people live in the region, according to 2015 United Nations estimates. The highly mountainous region covers an area of 72,971 sq km. Trade and tourism are the main economic activities of the region. China boosted investment in 2009 by signing an agreement with Pakistan for a major energy project which included the construction of a 7,000-megawatt hydroelectric dam.