Ahsan Iqbal calls for establishment of Pakistan Tourism Authority to promote tourism

ISLAMABAD, Nov 05 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday emphasized the need for establishing an autonomous Pakistan Tourism Authority to promote tourism through an effective national institutional framework and better coordination among provinces.

He expressed these views during a meeting with Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, in which Prime Minister’s Adviser on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan briefed the participants on initiatives for promoting tourism in Pakistan and achievements during 2025-26.

According to a press release issued by Planning Ministry, the meeting discussed the establishment of effective national-level institutions for the promotion of tourism and sports, along with improved coordination among the provinces.

Ahsan Iqbal said the proposed Pakistan Tourism Authority should include representation from all four provinces and play a coordinating role in advancing tourism activities across the country.

He emphasized the need to promote Pakistan internationally as a unified tourist destination, saying the country was blessed with natural beauty and abundant tourism resources.

The minister said tapping the country’s immense tourism potential required a comprehensive strategy and effective institutional collaboration.

During the meeting, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan informed the participants that the Pakistan Tourism, Sports and Family Festival 2026 would be held in Islamabad on November 6, 7 and 8.

He said tourism and recreational activities would be organized at various locations across the federal capital, including Lake View Park.

He added that sponsorships had also been secured from the private sector for organizing the festival.