Tourism Ties Strengthened at SCO 2024 Summit Islamabad

APP

Islamabad: The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) 2024 Summit presents a unique opportunity to foster tourism ties among member states.

Leaders from across the region have gathered in Islamabad for the 23rd meeting of the Council of the Heads of Government (CHG), focusing on economic, trade, tourism, environmental, and socio-cultural cooperation.

Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of PTDC, highlighted the vast potential for tourism development within SCO countries.

“The cultural and landscape diversity of this region offers infinite opportunities for tourism,” he said, adding that SCO countries boast nearly 150 UNESCO World Heritage Sites along with countless other attractions.

He further emphasized the importance of enhancing tourism infrastructure, improving air and road connectivity, and simplifying visa and travel formalities. In May 2024, tourism heads of SCO countries approved a Joint Plan of Action aimed at promoting sustainable tourism development and establishing a common tourist space across member states.

Rana called for further cooperation in tourism as a means of promoting mutual understanding and socio-economic growth among the SCO nations.