LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her message on World Tourism Day, paid tribute to all those committed to promoting tourism.
The Chief Minister said that Allah Almighty has invited mankind to travel across the earth and reflect upon His creation. Tourism helps develop human potential and promotes thought and contemplation. Allah Almighty has blessed Pakistan with immense natural beauty and tourism potential.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s recognition of Lahore as the Tourism and Cultural Capital this year was a welcome development. Punjab has tremendous tourism potential, she said, adding that all possible resources would be utilised for the promotion of tourism.
She said that the naturally beautiful areas of Punjab were no less attractive than those in developed countries. Punjab’s historical, cultural and natural heritage was a source of attraction for tourists from around the world. Sustainable measures were being taken to promote religious tourism in the province, she added.
The Chief Minister said that ancient forts, religious sites and picturesque valleys offered great opportunities for tourism. The Murree Glass Train would add a new attraction for tourists, while roads including Murree Mall Road were being constructed and expanded. Kotli Sattian was also emerging as a new tourist destination, she added.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the government was committed to projecting Pakistan’s positive image at the international level through tourism. Tourism development would help create a positive perception of Pakistan globally, she said, adding that the beautiful face of Pakistan needed to be introduced to the world.
She said highlighting Punjab’s historical, cultural and tourism heritage was among the government’s priorities. Promotion of tourism would create new employment opportunities and strengthen the local economy.
The CM said tourist destinations across Punjab were being made more attractive through modern facilities, development and rehabilitation. Sustainable initiatives were being undertaken to introduce Punjab’s tourist destinations at the international level, she added. She said the government was creating economic opportunities for young people and local communities through tourism. Tourism, she maintained, could prove to be a major milestone for the economy and culture of Punjab.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026