Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal has
called for the establishment of an independent Pakistan Tourism Authority. He said the new
authority could help promote tourism across the country through better planning and
coordination among provinces.

Ahsan Iqbal shared these views during a meeting with Federal Minister for Information and
Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Tourism Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan also
attended the meeting. He briefed the participants about tourism promotion activities and
achievements during 2025-26.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Planning, the meeting discussed the need
for strong national institutions to promote tourism and sports. Participants also discussed
improving cooperation between the federal government and provincial governments.
Ahsan Iqbal said the proposed Pakistan Tourism Authority should include representatives from
all four provinces. He explained that the authority would help coordinate tourism activities and
support the development of the tourism sector throughout Pakistan.

The minister also stressed the importance of promoting Pakistan as one united tourist
destination at the international level. He said Pakistan has beautiful natural landscapes and
many attractive places for visitors.

He added that the country needs a complete tourism strategy to make better use of its natural
beauty and tourism resources. Strong cooperation between institutions is also important for
achieving long-term progress in this sector.

During the meeting, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan also shared details about the upcoming Pakistan
Tourism, Sports and Family Festival 2026. He announced that the festival would take place in
Islamabad on November 6, 7 and 8.

He said different tourism and recreational activities would be arranged at several locations
across the federal capital. Lake View Park will also be among the main venues for these
activities.

The adviser further informed the meeting that private-sector sponsors had also agreed to
support the festival.

The proposed Pakistan Tourism Authority and upcoming festival reflect efforts to strengthen
tourism in Pakistan. Better coordination and international promotion could help attract more
visitors and create new opportunities for the country’s tourism industry.

Source: Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives (Press Release)

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