Faiza Tehseen

The Chinese tourism framework can help Pakistan promote both domestic and international tourism and extract maximum socio-economic benefits. The Pak China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) is keen to play its role in promoting Pakistan’s tourism industry, said the PCJCCI President Moazzam Ghurki while talking to WealthPK. Ghurki said, “China is the largest domestic tourism market and at the topmost level in generating outbound tourists globally. Inbound tourism in China is also at the international forefront. By joining hands with Chinese tourism authorities, Pakistan can also successfully develop its own tourism industry according to the modern patterns.”

“CPEC is the name of a vast network for all trade and business sectors including tourism. It has made all tourist spots from east to west and from north to south accessible all over Pakistan and can play a vital role in promoting the tourism industry. There is a dire need to weave a proper framework for the tourism industry to extract economic benefits throughout the region,” he added.

Furthermore, he said China was keen to tie solid bonds with Pakistan and this year was also dedicated for this sake. “China has reopened its boundaries for tourists this year after a long period of pandemic, offering an opportunity for Pakistan to attract Chinese tourists. Pakistan has faced a serious setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic and last year’s catastrophic flood. The flood severely affected the Northern Areas, which are considered the tourist hotspots,” he said.

“The resulting partial or complete destruction of over 3,000km of roads and 145 bridges is recorded. A great number of hotels and restaurants have been destroyed and many of them have not recovered yet. A great number of people earn their livelihood from this segment and it is important to keep their socio-economic circle smooth for survival. Pak-China coordination is important to boost the tourism industry,” said Ghurki.

Talking to WealthPK, Senior Vice President of PCJCCI Fang Yulong said there was much tourism potential in Pakistan, which could not only generate economic activities in the local areas but also have a positive impact on the national economy. “Currently, 300,000 people in Pakistan are associated with the tourism industry. This number is likely to increase to 500,000 in the coming years if the authorities concerned maintain proper infrastructure, connectivity, and better facilities concerning hospitality, security, and recreation,” Fang said.

‘’Pakistan also generates good revenue from foreign tourists. It is important to revive and conserve the tourist spots in order to promote the tourism industry and combat climate change. We should create awareness about the climate change effects and encourage private tour operators to boost tourism and promote the country’s image in the international arena,” added Fang Yulong. He said the PCJCCI was keen to play its role in bringing both Chinese and Pakistani tourism officials and private tour operators to the table, which would help both the countries frame a joint tourism policy for their socio-economic benefits.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk