ISLAMABAD, Dec 05 (APP): As part of the Government of Punjab\u2019s \u2018Magnificent Punjab\u2019 vision, the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), in collaboration with the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), organized a Tourism Outreach Programme here at a local hotel on Friday.<\/p>\n
The initiative forms part of the preparations for the 21st TDCP International Cholistan Desert Rally, scheduled to take place from February 4 to 8, 2026, in the Cholistan Desert, Bahawalpur. Over the years, the rally has evolved from a motorsport competition into a major cultural and tourism festival, drawing participation from foreign embassies, professional drivers, media representatives and the general public.<\/p>\n
It stands among South Punjab\u2019s most prominent tourism events and serves as a vital platform for showcasing the region\u2019s heritage, adventure sports and economic potential.<\/p>\n
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhary, lauded the joint efforts of TDCP and PTDC. He described the Cholistan Desert Rally as a flagship initiative for promoting adventure tourism, cultural identity and a positive international image of Pakistan.<\/p>\n
He added that such events help strengthen people-to-people ties, create investment opportunities and provide livelihoods for local communities. The minister reaffirmed the government\u2019s support for tourism promotion and assured full facilitation for the upcoming rally.<\/p>\n
\u201cParticipants from across the country will join the rally, helping project Pakistan\u2019s softer image to the world,\u201d he said. He also assured that all necessary facilities would be provided for the rally, noting that tourism is guided by national policy and plays a vital role in promoting Pakistan\u2019s culture.<\/p>\n
Prime Minister\u2019s Coordinator on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, noted that the rally has been running for over two decades, a testament to the country\u2019s commitment to tourism development. Highlighting the expanded 700-km route, he said it reflects Pakistan\u2019s ability to transform natural landscapes into economic strength.<\/p>\n
He added that the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and the nation\u2019s resilience contribute to presenting Pakistan as a peaceful destination. \u201cOur target is to bring back the overseas community. We have everything in this country, we just need to capitalize on it,\u201d he remarked. He emphasized the need for enhancing skills development, job creation and confidence-building in Pakistan\u2019s tourism potential.<\/p>\n
TDCP Managing Director Asim Raza highlighted Punjab\u2019s vast tourism potential and the corporation\u2019s forward-looking strategy to promote it domestically and internationally. He said that the Thal and Cholistan Desert Rallies have been instrumental in developing South Punjab as an emerging winter tourism hub. With over two decades of continued growth, the Cholistan Desert Rally has become the largest rally event in South Asia, significantly contributing to Pakistan\u2019s tourism sector.<\/p>\n
Raza also noted that TDCP conducts tourism awareness campaigns across the province, with Punjab\u2019s cultural and historical attractions drawing millions of visitors annually. He added that developing state-of-the-art tourism facilities, aligned with international standards, remains a key priority.<\/p>\n
PTDC Managing Director Aftab Ur Rehman Rana commended TDCP\u2019s leadership and recognized the active involvement of foreign embassies. He emphasized PTDC\u2019s commitment to strengthening tourism diplomacy and building global partnerships, stressing that collaboration between provincial and federal tourism bodies is essential to enhance Pakistan\u2019s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.<\/p>\n
Race Director Nomam Khan shared that the event, first launched in 2005, has now entered its 21st edition. With the track extended to 700 kms, he noted that it has become the longest and largest rally in South Asia in terms of participation.<\/p>\n
Prominent off-road racer and Islamabad Motor Club President Asif Fazal Chaudhary praised the rally as a reflection of Pakistan\u2019s cultural heritage and commended Nomam Khan for his efforts in organizing the mega event.<\/p>\n
Female racer Salma Farhat shared her experience, saying that the rallies have been an important learning platform, and she encouraged greater female participation in motorsports.<\/p>\n
The programme featured the official trophy unveiling, a promotional launch, a documentary screening and cultural performances, showcasing Punjab\u2019s vibrant heritage.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
ISLAMABAD, Dec 05 (APP): As part of the Government of Punjab\u2019s \u2018Magnificent Punjab\u2019 vision, the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), in collaboration with the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), organized a Tourism Outreach Programme here at a local hotel on Friday. The initiative forms […]<\/p>\n
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