ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) to take immediate and practical steps to promote tourism in the country.
“Public and private sectors should work together to facilitate international tourists’ visits to Pakistan’s tourist destinations,” the prime minister said while chairing a meeting to review efforts for the development of the tourism sector.
He further stressed the need for special measures to boost domestic tourism by encouraging local travelers to explore the country’s recreational sites. He also called for strategic planning to attract long-term investment in the tourism sector.
He said there is vast potential to earn foreign exchange by promoting tourism in the country.
“Almighty has blessed Pakistan with abundant natural resources and timeless beauty,” he remarked, adding that with its snow-capped mountains, lush forests, rivers, plains, deserts, and other natural wonders – especially in the northern areas – Pakistan is in no way behind any other nation in terms of tourism potential.
The prime minister further instructed that Pakistan should be introduced abroad as a tourism brand.
“With cooperation from the provinces, steps should be taken across the country to promote tourism,” he noted, adding that “under the vision for national development, we will make Pakistan one of the leading tourist destinations in the world”.
During the meeting, the prime minister was presented with proposals on how to harness the full potential of Pakistan’s tourism sector.
To promote tourism, steps such as the promotion of northern tourist destinations, medical tourism, and other initiatives can be taken, the meeting was informed.
The meeting was attended by minister for information and broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, minister for railways Hanif Abbasi, Minister for Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan Affairs Amir Muqam, Minister for National heritage Aurangzeb Kitchi, Advisor to Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Special Assistant Huzaifa Rehman and senior government officials.
