Government all set to launch tourism app

September 27, 2023 (MLN): The government is all set to launch a 'tourism app' soon, offering easy access to information about various tourism destinations and also promoting medical tourism in Pakistan, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Tourism Wasi Shah stated on Wednesday.

World Tourism Day is a global observance that celebrates the role of tourism in fostering social, cultural, economic, and environmental values.

It is held every year on September 27, since 1980, when it was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The date marks the anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes in 1970.

In an exclusive talk, the minister said that the caretaker government would promote eco-tourism under a private-public partnership in areas abundant in tourist attractions, as APP reported.

"Tourists visiting Pakistan will very soon have an official application providing authentic information and access to the state tourism department," he added.

The app will be made available on the Google Play Store for Android users, adding, the app will have all information pertaining to tourist spots, means of transport, and other services.

Replying to a question, he said, "Governments will create a favorable environment for the growth of the medical tourism industry through the implementation of various policies."

Wasi Shah stated, "These long-term policies can directly or indirectly impact the attractiveness of a destination for international patients, adding, that we will engage public-private partnerships with healthcare organizations to jointly develop and promote medical tourism initiatives."

"Our plan is to make tourism an engine of economic growth and employment generation for the youngsters in coming years," he added.

Pakistan has different climatic zones and numerous untapped tourist spots which can be promoted and projected to the world.

The government is focused on eco-tourism to ensure environmental conservation while managing tourist spots.

The minister further said that media should play an active role in promoting tourism sites, adding, that filmmakers and play writers should focus on exploring more tourist destinations.

He said all stakeholders should not only run awareness campaigns regarding cleanliness but also ensure effective cleaning arrangements at the tourist spots on a daily basis.

The minister also hailed the work of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation in the promotion of tourism in the country.

"We are pushing green initiatives to promote responsible tourism in the country and the ministry has various plans to ensure small businesses have the resources for green investments and to create local jobs," he added.

Wasi Shah while admiring the natural beauty of Pakistan said, "We are blessed with a country that is home to some of the world's most fascinating tourist attractions, including the highest mountain peaks, stunning coastlines, beautiful lakes, lush green valleys, ancient civilizations, and a rich cultural heritage."

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