High-Level Meeting Approves Phased Plan to Boost Cross-Border Tourism Between Pakistan and China

Islamabad:

A high-level inter-ministerial meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad to discuss the proposed Khunjerab Tourism Corridor. The meeting reviewed plans to promote cross-border tourism and strengthen economic cooperation between Pakistan and China.

The session was held under the framework of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Gilgit-Baltistan Home Department, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), and the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO) attended the meeting. Secretaries and other senior government officials were also present.

Focus on Opening Khunjerab Border for Chinese Tourists

The main agenda was to discuss opening the Khunjerab border for Chinese tourists. Participants reviewed the requirements, opportunities, and implementation strategy for facilitating cross-border tourism.

Officials said the initiative would strengthen Pakistan-China relations through greater people-to-people contact. It would also boost tourism, attract investment, and support regional development.

Strong Support from All Stakeholders

Representatives from all participating institutions expressed strong support for the project. They said the tourism corridor could generate significant economic and social benefits.

The participants noted that the project would promote local businesses, create employment opportunities, and encourage sustainable tourism across Gilgit-Baltistan. They also discussed its long-term economic impact and agreed on a phased implementation plan.

Phase I to Begin in Hunza and Nagar

Under the approved roadmap, the first phase will serve as a pilot project.

Tourism activities will begin in the districts of Hunza and Nagar, extending to the Rakaposhi Viewpoint. These areas were selected because they already have established tourism infrastructure and visitor facilities.

Phase II to Expand Across Gilgit-Baltistan

After the successful completion of the pilot phase, the second phase will expand the tourism corridor to Gilgit, Skardu, and other districts of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The expansion aims to accommodate a larger number of international visitors and further strengthen the region’s tourism industry.

Corridor Expected to Boost Economy and Regional Connectivity

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the Khunjerab Tourism Corridor could become a landmark initiative for Pakistan’s tourism sector.

Participants said the project would improve regional connectivity, increase foreign tourist arrivals, and contribute to long-term economic growth.

Representatives Attend the Meeting

Among the participants were Aftab Rana from the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC); Raja Nazim-ul-Amin, Muhammad Raziq, Dr. Ijlal, Mahmood Malik, and Mahazar Mufti from the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI); and Captain Niaz Ahmed, Zahid Hussain, Mubarak Hussain, Sadruddin, Sajid Mehmood, and Nazim Ullah Baig from the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO). Senior secretaries and officials from the participating ministries and institutions also attended the meeting.