ICCI tourism summit in Skardu wins accolades from diplomatic community

ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 :President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Ahsan Zafar Bakhtiawari on Friday said that the Chamber was playing a vital role in promoting Pakistan’s tourism potential.
He said that the successful organization of the 2nd Tourism Summit in Skardu was a testament to its dedication and hard work.
In a statement, he said that the summit provided a platform for stakeholders to come together, share ideas, and explore opportunities to develop Pakistan’s tourism industry.
The connections made and discussions held during the summit will lead to tangible outcomes, such as increased investment, infrastructure development, and policy reforms, he added.

He said that by highlighting the natural beauty and cultural richness of Pakistan, the ICCI is helping to showcase the country’s soft image and attract tourists from around the world.

These efforts will not only boost the economy but also promote cross-cultural understanding and people-to-people connections,he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of European Union Dr Riina Kionka said that Gilgit-Baltistan is the most beautiful area, enjoying immense potential to enhance the soft image of Pakistan worldwide through tourism and that by increasing tourism facilities, the region can be made a hub of international tourism.
She said that the European Union is committed to start many projects for the promotion of tourism in Gilgit-Balistan including Education, trade, Health, climate change in the days to come.
The High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, Mazhar Bin Mazlan said that Pakistan and Malaysia are all weather friends and that we are all proud of the achievements of Pakistan, it made during last 77 years.
He also expressed his gratitude to President ICCI Ahsan Bakhtawari and his entire team for enabling him to join Independence Day celebrations of Pakistan at this most beautiful region and the highest plateau of 14000 feet high.
Promoting tourism in these areas can not only boost Pakistan’s economy but also showcase the country’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, thereby helping to project a soft image of Pakistan globally, he added.
He said that there is a need to promote mutual cooperation in the field of tourism in Pakistan and Malaysia and both sides can share their experiences with each other.
The Ambassador of Egypt to Pakistan, Dr. Ihab Abdel Hamid Hasan appreciated ICCI’s tourism promotion efforts to help attract international attention and tourists to the region.
He said that he was working for the VISA on arrival for the business community of Pakistan, which will surely strengthen the economic relations between the two countries.
Ambassador of Azarbaijan, Khizr Farhadov said that Pakistan’s northern areas, including Gilgit-Baltistan are tremendously beautiful and offer immense potential for tourism.
He said the region’s diverse landscapes, ranging from mountains to lush valleys and serene lakes, make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.