Pakistan to promote ancient Silk Road to boost tourism industry

The ancient Silk Road that connects Pakistan and China to Central Asian countries has scope and importance in helping developing countries including Pakistan to maximize the benefits of tourism development for local communities, encourage foreign investment and improve the national economy, the official said.

Rana said that the country's tourism industry has significantly developed with improved tourism infrastructure and facilities over the last few years, adding that the incumbent government has been taking a number of initiatives for further promotion and development of the tourism sector.

Pakistan has been providing facilities to more than 190 countries to apply for tourist visas online under the ease of visa policy, the official said.

Highlighting the potential of tourism, Rana said that Pakistan has amazing landscape, natural beauty, history, rich culture and heritage, mountain ranges, glaciers and lakes.

"This can attract tourism from both local and foreign markets," he said.