Call to explore KP’s tourism potential

PESHAWAR: The Overseas Business Forum, UK, on Thursday called for exploring the tourism and export potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Speaking at a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club, the chairman of the forum, Muhammad Farooq Khan, highlighted the deep-rooted connection overseas Pakistanis feel with their homeland.

“We live and earn abroad, but our hearts beat for Pakistan,” said Farooq Khan, who was accompanied by other forum officials. He said that frequent protests and political instability

were the biggest hurdles to Pakistan’s progress. He lamented Pakistan’s lagging export performance, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where exports were almost negligible, calling it a matter of grave concern.

Farooq Khan expressed a strong desire to see tourism flourish in Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He described KP as a treasure trove of natural beauty and resources.They announced plans to organise an international expo showcasing Pakistani products, aiming to boost exports and attract investment. In a recent event held in Mardan, they said, the forum provided guidelines to members of the local Chamber of Commerce on improving exports and tourism.

Farooq Khan also said that the forum members met with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor to discuss collaborative tourism initiatives. “We have agreed to work on new projects aimed at promoting tourism in the region,” he said.

The Overseas Business Forum UK called on the federal and provincial governments to implement sincere and effective policies to pave the way for Pakistan’s development. “The forum is ready to provide full support to Pakistan’s business community to ensure progress and prosperity,” Farooq added.