AJK Prime Minister Highlights Tourism as Key Economic Driver
Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has underscored the vast and untapped tourism potential of Azad Kashmir, calling on the business community to actively participate in developing this sector as a crucial engine for economic growth, investment, and employment in the region. He shared these insights during a meeting with a delegation from the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), led by its President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, who visited him on Saturday to congratulate him on assuming office.
Delegation Details and Government Plans
The ICCI delegation comprised several key members, including Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub, Vice President Irfan Chaudhry, former President Mohammad Ejaz Abbasi, and other executive and senior members such as Zulqurnain Abbasi, Ishaq Sial, Najeeb Ellahi Malik, Naveed Malik, Israr ul Haq, Sardar Amjad, and Azher Abbasi. Welcoming the group, the AJK Prime Minister highlighted that Azad Kashmir's natural beauty, scenic landscapes, and favorable climate position it as one of the most promising tourism destinations in the area. He emphasized that tourism could stimulate economic activity, support small and medium enterprises, and generate large-scale employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
Furthermore, he announced that the AJK government has scheduled an International Tourism Investment Conference for February 2026. He also expressed his intention to visit ICCI soon to engage with Islamabad's business community and showcase the trade and investment potential of Azad Kashmir, with a special focus on tourism development.
Business Community's Response and Collaboration
Speaking at the meeting, ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood stressed the importance of close coordination between the government and the business community to transform Azad Kashmir's natural advantages into tangible economic benefits. He noted that developing tourism infrastructure would not only increase visitor numbers but also boost allied sectors like hospitality, transport, and services. The ICCI president reaffirmed the chamber's readiness to collaborate with the AJK government on tourism-related projects and other priority areas, assuring support in facilitating connections between investors and relevant authorities.
Both parties agreed that a robust public-private partnership is essential to unlock Azad Kashmir's tourism and investment potential. They resolved to maintain close coordination to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the region, underscoring the shared commitment to harnessing this sector for regional prosperity.
