Along the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), there are
opportunities for investment in every tourism sector from Khunjrab to
Gwadar. For the development of tourism, the involvement of local
community is essential so that high and quality facilities are made
available to the foreign as well as domestic tourists.
“ The time is
not far when the world will feel that Pakistan is truly a tourist
paradise. Tourism interests can be created by highlighting regional
development and culture” General Manager, Pakistan Tourism Ali Akbar
Malik said while addressing a panel discussion at the ‘Meet Pakistan
Conference Through Arts, Culture and Society. He further said that
development and promotion of tourism in the country is the first
priority of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) ), and
efforts will be continued in this regard.
Due to the improvement in
the security situation in the country, domestic tourism has increased
significantly compared to last few years and the overall impact of
Pakistan is improving in the world. Tourism is the only sector that can
bring people closer from different nations in the world and establish
mutual harmony. Pakistan is a peaceful country where tourism has
countless opportunities.
Ali Akbar Malik said that the natural
scenes, historical and cultural heritage and hospitable people of have a
unique blend the world’s tourist which makes it an outstanding country.
Results can only be achieved from appropriate marketing only.
New
dimensions are being introduced to tourists’ entertainment, including
air and rail safari, tourism satellite channels etc. Tourism is also
being introduced as curriculum in the national universities. For the
promotion of tourism, formulation of National Tourism Strategy is also
under final stages of completion.
He added that holding such
conferences would increase the confidence of the world to Pakistan and
foreign tourists will be encouraged to come to Pakistan. The need is to
create awareness about Pakistani tourist places to our young generation
so that they can see their homeland and enjoy diverse scenes in it. In
this case, Pakistani embassies abroad in foreign countries can play a
pivotal role.
President of the Sustainable Tourism Foundation and
PTDC’s Honorary Coordinator, Aftab ur Rehman Rana, while briefing on
ecotourism said that some important steps are required to be taken to
promote tourism in the country, which include establishment of a
National Tourism Authority in order to promote tourism in the country as
well as highlight the identity of the country. Development of tourism
will not only increases domestic income but will also help in
highlighting the positive image of Pakistan at the international level.
Due to the political stability and peace restoration, trade has
increased and the increase in investment is also expected.
On this
occasion, PTDC established a Tourist Information Counter where tourism
brochures and publications were distributed to the participants of the
conference, while souvenirs were presented to senior figures were also
presented.
Source: Pakistan Observer
