BEIJING: Pakistan’s presence at the China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market (COTTM) Expo will significantly bolster tourism ties between the two nations and increase the influx of Chinese tourists to Pakistan’s historically, culturally, and scenically rich destinations.
The Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), in collaboration with eight prominent private tour operators, showcased the country’s diverse tourism offerings during the three-day exhibition in Beijing from November 15 to 17.
Described as the industry’s pivotal business-to-business event, COTTM focuses exclusively on the growing outbound market. State Minister for Tourism and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Youth Affairs, Wasi Shah, expressed confidence that Pakistan’s participation in this influential tourism market would strengthen bilateral tourism exchanges and foster business-to-business connections among tour operators from both nations.
Emphasizing the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China, Wasi Shah extended a warm invitation for Chinese investments in Pakistan, stating that the bond between the two countries is stronger than mountains, deeper than oceans, and sweeter than honey.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at COTTM and highlighted Pakistan’s cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unique cuisine. Ambassador Hashmi encouraged Chinese tourists, academics, and entrepreneurs to explore Pakistan, underlining the pivotal role of tourism exchanges in strengthening bilateral relations.
Managing Director of PTDC, Aftab Rana, expressed optimism that the expo would facilitate significant business-to-business linkages between tour operators, ultimately boosting tourist traffic between China and Pakistan. He underscored China’s importance as a key market for attracting inbound tourists to Pakistan and mentioned ongoing efforts to strengthen business ties in the tourism sector.
PTDC Focal Person, Omar, conveyed the desire to tap into the world’s largest tourist market and attract more Chinese tourists to explore Pakistan’s picturesque sites. He highlighted efforts to streamline visa processes and facilities for Chinese tourists.
Chairman of Hunza Travel Service, Hussain Ali Ghulam, stressed the need to attract Chinese tourists, citing the allure of cities like Peshawar and Lahore. He also emphasized the media’s role in showcasing Pakistan’s tourism potential, particularly to Chinese tourists.
📸✨ Explore the dynamic snapshots from the heart of COTTM 2023 at the Pakistan Pavilion! 🌍 Amidst the lens of collaboration and connection, witness the energy of B2B meetings and the enthusiasm of our diverse visitors. pic.twitter.com/paNupii0cZ
— Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation – PTDC (@PtdcOfficial) November 17, 2023
