ISLAMABAD: On ‘World Tourism Day,’ Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Tourism, Wasi Shah, announced the imminent launch of a groundbreaking ‘Tourism App.’
This app, designed for public convenience, will provide one-click access to comprehensive information on tourism destinations. Moreover, it aims to boost the field of medical tourism.
In an exclusive interview, Minister Shah disclosed the caretaker government’s plans to foster eco-tourism through public-private partnerships, capitalizing on regions abundant in natural attractions.
“Tourists visiting Pakistan will soon have an official application available on the Google Play Store,” he enthusiastically shared. “This app will be a treasure trove of information about tourist hotspots, transportation options, and essential services.”
When addressing inquiries about medical tourism, he highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing policies that would encourage industry growth.
“We intend to forge strong public-private partnerships with healthcare institutions to develop and promote medical tourism initiatives jointly,” he emphasized.
Minister Shah outlined his vision of making tourism a driving force for economic growth and youth employment in the years ahead.
Responding to another query, he emphasized Pakistan’s diverse climatic zones and countless untapped tourist destinations that could be showcased to the world. He stressed the government’s dedication to eco-tourism to preserve the environment while managing tourist sites.
The minister urged the media, filmmakers, and playwrights to actively promote tourism destinations, asserting that they should explore and highlight additional tourist hotspots.
He further underscored the importance of cleanliness and urged all stakeholders to run awareness campaigns and ensure daily cleaning arrangements at tourist spots.
Minister Shah also commended the efforts of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation in advancing tourism in the nation.
He noted, “We are pushing for green initiatives to encourage responsible tourism,” he stated. “The ministry has plans to support small businesses in making green investments and creating local employment opportunities.”
While expressing admiration for Pakistan’s natural beauty, Minister Wasi Shah noted, “Our country is blessed with some of the world’s most captivating tourist attractions, including towering mountain peaks, picturesque coastlines, serene lakes, lush green valleys, ancient civilizations, and a rich cultural heritage.” —APP
