In a groundbreaking revelation, Caretaker Minister for Tourism, Wasi Shah, has announced that Pakistan witnessed an extraordinary surge in tourism during the year 2023. According to the minister, there was an astounding 115 percent increase in foreign tourist arrivals, marking a significant rebound from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This positive development also translated into substantial economic gains, with the country earning a revenue of 1.3 billion dollars from the tourism sector.
The minister highlighted the findings of the ‘World Tourism Barometer,’ a publication by the World Tourism Organisation of the United Nations, which indicated that Pakistan achieved an impressive 92 percent recovery to pre-pandemic levels in 2023. The data paints a picture of resilience and adaptability within the tourism sector, showcasing Pakistan as a destination that successfully navigated the complexities brought about by the global health crisis.
In a televised interview, Minister Wasi Shah expressed optimism for the tourism landscape in 2024, anticipating further growth and international interest. He emphasized the government’s proactive role in promoting Pakistan’s tourism opportunities on the global stage, aiming to attract more tourists to explore the diverse offerings of the country.
The recognition of Pakistan’s tourism prowess was further solidified by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which declared Pakistan as the best country for tourism in the year 2023. This prestigious acknowledgment was conveyed by the secretary interior during a meeting with a delegation from the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators in Islamabad.
The secretary interior affirmed that the promotion of tourism ranks among the top priorities of the government, highlighting the commitment to resolving challenges faced by the tourism industry. One notable outcome of the meeting was the decision to streamline the process of tourist visa issuance, making it easier and faster for visitors to choose Pakistan as their preferred destination.
Aftab Rana, the Managing Director of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), has also shared insights into the country’s exceptional performance in the tourism sector. He has revealed that PTDC has been actively engaged in six major global events, fostering crucial Business-to-Business connections with foreign tour operators. The corporation played a pivotal role in showcasing Pakistan’s tourism potential on an international platform.
Caretaker Minister Wasi Shah has extended congratulations to the PTDC team for their instrumental role in the remarkable achievements of 2023. With a 115 percent surge in foreign tourist arrivals and positive acknowledgments from international organizations like UNWTO, Pakistan’s tourism sector is poised for a stronger performance in the coming year, signaling a bright and promising future for the country as a leading global tourism destination.
https://www.radio.gov.pk/30-12-2023/wto-lauds-pakistans-remarkable-tourism-achievements-in-2023
