Tourism development can boost Punjab economy, create jobs: Maryam Nawaz

In her message on World Tourism Day, Maryam Nawaz paid tribute to those passionate about tourism and said travel encourages people to explore the world and reflect on its wonders. She said tourism helps develop natural abilities and promotes thought and reflection.

The chief minister said Pakistan had been blessed with immense tourism attractions, while Punjab’s historical, cultural and natural heritage offered considerable appeal to tourists from around the world.

She welcomed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s decision to designate Lahore as the tourism and cultural capital this year, saying Punjab’s areas rich in natural beauty were no less attractive than those in developed countries. Maryam Nawaz said sustainable measures were being taken to promote religious tourism in Punjab.

She said ancient forts, religious sites and scenic valleys were highly suitable for tourism. She said the Murree Glass Train would create 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. The chief minister said the government was committed to projecting a positive image of Pakistan internationally through tourism. She said tourism development would help create a positive perception of the country and showcase its beauty 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, she added., tourist destinations across Punjab were being made more attractive through modern facilities and reconstruction, while sustainable measures were being taken to introduce the province’s tourism sites at the international level.

She said young people and local communities were being provided with economic opportunities through tourism, adding that the sector could become an important milestone for Punjab’s economy and culture.