Pakistan and China Strengthen Ties in Year of Tourism
In the enchanting landscapes of Pakistan, where echoes of ancient civilizations whisper tales of grandeur, a remarkable alliance is forming. Pakistan is extending a warm invitation to tourists, urging them to explore its natural wonders, vibrant culture, and rich historical treasures.
Syed Wasi Shah, the Caretaker Minister of State for Tourism, recently shared Pakistan's ambitious vision for tourism during an exclusive phone interview. The year 2023 has been designated as the "Year of Tourism" by both Pakistan and China. Minister Shah emphasized that this collaboration goes beyond a mere celebration; it represents a cornerstone for a new era in their joint efforts to elevate the tourism sector.
Chinese travelers now have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the heritage of one of the world's oldest civilizations. They can visit a rich collection of Sufi shrines, and Buddhist monasteries, scale some of the highest mountains globally, and bask in the natural beauty of places like Gilgit-Baltistan, where blossoming trees contrast with snow-clad peaks, or the pristine beaches of Gwadar.
Minister Shah's goal is to secure a special place for Pakistan in the hearts of travelers. "Our land is truly blessed. From the sacred grounds of Takht-i-Bahi to the ancient city of Mohenjo Daro, from our vast Buddhist heritage to the mesmerizing Gandhara art collections in our museums, every corner tells a story."
Indeed, Pakistan is a paradise on Earth for tourists, and Chinese tourists are expected to feel right at home. Authorities have devised comprehensive plans to attract visitors to Pakistan's many tourist destinations.
Strategic initiatives are already underway. Webinars that connect Chinese and Pakistani tour operators, coordinated by the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation, have commenced to strengthen business-to-business collaborations.
Furthermore, a specialized training seminar on tourism promotion for developing nations took place in Beijing from August 22 to September 11. The Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation was represented by two officers, accompanied by a delegate from the Tourism Department of Gilgit Baltistan.
"As the Year of Tourism unfolds, Pakistan and China are poised to create a new narrative together—one where wanderlust meets history, where culture embraces modernity, and where two nations draw closer, one traveler at a time," stated Minister Wasi Shah.
As the morning sun bathes the ancient Buddhist sites of northern Punjab province and central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in a gentle glow, it's not difficult to envision the magnetic pull these places hold for Chinese tourists.
According to Aamir Ghauri, the resident editor of The News, Pakistan is well-prepared to showcase an array of attractions to Chinese tourists, ranging from remnants of ancient civilizations to Muslim heritage and the monumental vestiges of Buddhism.
"Pakistan's tourism portfolio is brimming with unique offerings. Depending on their point of entry, Chinese tourists can explore some of the world's most pristine Buddhist heritage sites, which are proudly listed on the UN's prestigious heritage list," remarked Ghauri.
A passionate traveler himself, Ghauri paints a vivid picture: "The Potohar region is a canvas adorned with ancient Hindu edifices. Then there's Peshawar and Lahore, where the majestic echoes of the Mughal empire resound. And for the adventurous souls, the towering peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan beckon, daring them to touch the sky."
In Conclusion
As Pakistan and China embark on this remarkable journey of cultural exchange and exploration, the "Year of Tourism" promises to be an exciting chapter in the history of both nations. Travelers from China will have the opportunity to uncover the treasures of Pakistan, from its ancient past to its awe-inspiring natural beauty, forging lasting connections between these two nations through the universal language of wanderlust.
