KP Minister Stresses Tourism as Key Economic Driver at Peshawar Conference
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control, Syed Fakhar Jehan, declared on Tuesday that the provincial government is fully dedicated to advancing tourism as a fundamental pillar for economic expansion, employment generation, and enhancing the province's positive image both nationally and internationally.
He emphasized that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, endowed with natural beauty, a rich historical heritage, and strong cultural values, must be showcased as a peaceful and appealing destination globally. In this regard, the hosting of the International Tourism Conference and Exhibition in Peshawar marks a significant milestone in highlighting the province's vast tourism potential.
Commendable Initiative and Collaborative Efforts
Addressing the ceremony as chief guest at the event held in a local hotel, the minister noted that such tourism conferences were previously conducted in cities outside the province. However, organizing a global-level conference and exhibition in Peshawar to spotlight Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's tourism heritage and opportunities is a highly commendable and welcome initiative.
He praised the efforts of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority, the organizer Pakistan Media Development Foundation, and other supporting organizations for successfully arranging the conference. Additionally, he thanked the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry for its active participation, underscoring that close coordination between public and private sectors is crucial for tourism promotion.
Showcasing Diversity and Historical Engagement
During the event, the minister visited various stalls displaying historical, cultural, and tourism sites and crafts from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, and other regions of the country, expressing keen interest in the exhibits.
The conference was attended by notable figures including US Consul General in Peshawar Thomas Eckert, Director General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority Usman Mahsud, President of Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Junaid Altaf, former Chamber President Ghaznfar Bilour, Head of Pakistan Media Development Foundation Durdana Shahab, along with government officials, organizational representatives, media personnel, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.
In his address, Fakhar Jehan recalled his previous tenure as provincial minister for Sports, where major cultural events such as the Horse and Cattle Show in Peshawar and a large-scale event in Dera Ismail Khan were organized, attracting enthusiastic participation nationwide. This, he stated, clearly demonstrates that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a peaceful and suitable province for tourism and cultural activities.
Strategic Initiatives for Tourism Development
The minister highlighted that through this conference, a clear message is being sent to people across Pakistan to visit Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, enjoy its hospitality, natural beauty, scenic landscapes, and experience its rich culture firsthand. Emphasizing the province's cultural strength will help project a positive global image.
He outlined several government initiatives aimed at fostering tourism:
- Tourism Maizban (Host) Programme: Providing interest-free loans of up to Rs3 million through the Bank of Khyber, repayable over five years, to enable local communities to establish two-room accommodation facilities at tourist destinations. So far, 81 individuals have benefited from this scheme, promoting eco-tourism and natural conservation.
- Adventure Tourism Schools: Two schools have been established in the province to offer training in paragliding and other adventure activities, attracting youth from across the country for professional development.
- Integrated Tourism Zones: Feasibility studies for locations such as Ghanol, Mankial, Thandiani, and Madaklasht have been completed, with plans to develop modern facilities for organized and sustainable tourism.
Furthermore, the minister mentioned that the provincial government is creating a conducive environment for business, investment, and industrial growth. Last year, a provincial transmission company was established to supply affordable electricity to industries, with initial launch in the Swat region to directly benefit the tourism sector.
Future Prospects and Economic Impact
Fakhar Jehan concluded by asserting that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is rich in natural resources and holds immense potential in key sectors like tourism, hydropower, and gas. The government is implementing a comprehensive strategy to develop all sectors, and in the coming years, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is poised to emerge as a major driver of Pakistan's economic growth.
