Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Minister of Information and Public Relations, Culture, and Tourism, Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakakhil, has outlined the government’s dedication to enhancing the tourism experience in the province. The goal is to create an environment that not only attracts tourists but also encourages them to revisit.

According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the minister emphasized the collective commitment of the government, armed forces, and institutions in providing facilities to the tourism sector. This commitment includes initiatives like tourism policing and a 24/7 helpline to assist tourists. The government is also open to public-private partnerships to further enhance tourism in the province. Integrated tourism zones are being established, with one such zone underway in Chitral.

The ‘Chitral Symposium’ was recently organized as part of a coordinated effort to promote tourism in Chitral. The event was successful in gathering suggestions and understanding the challenges faced by the region. The minister expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Army for their support in organizing the symposium and acknowledged the contributions of the Department of Tourism and Culture and Tourism Authority for their arrangements.

Barrister Kakakhil highlighted the unique appeal of places like Chitral, known for their diverse culture, rich traditions, heritage, and natural beauty. He stressed the importance of promoting tourism while protecting the environment and local cultures. The minister recognized the fragility of natural sites and the need to preserve them for future generations.

The minister also spoke about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s distinguished position in the world of tourism, citing its centuries-old history, natural environment, hospitality, and unique culture. He noted that 90 percent of Buddhist sites and many valuable artifacts are located in the province, with only half of them currently displayed in the Peshawar Museum.

Looking ahead, the minister mentioned that 2024 is proposed to be celebrated as the year of tourism for the province. The government aims to implement effective strategies based on the suggestions made during the symposium. The focus will be on improving access to tourist spots for both foreign and local tourists, ensuring that no special permits are required for visiting these areas.