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Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
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H.E. Mr. Yousef H. Khalawi
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H.E. Hissein Brahim Taha
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H.E. Mr. Abdullah Saleh Kamel
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H.E. Mr. Jam Kamal Khan
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Atif Ikram Sheikh
Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
I commend the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) for organizing the International Forum on “Sustainable Tourism” in Karachi. This important initiative, in line with the decisions of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers and the Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers, will help promote tourism, foster peace, harmony, and understanding among nations, and highlight the global significance of sustainable tourism. Tourism today is one of the most dynamic sectors driving economic growth and strengthening people-to-people connections. Around the world, it has helped remove misconceptions, build positive images, and create opportunities for inclusive development. Pakistan, with its breathtaking mountains, rivers, plains, and ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Gandhara, has immense potential to develop tourism that not only celebrates our heritage but also supports livelihoods across even the most remote regions. The Government of Pakistan is committed to supporting the tourism sector through progressive reforms and entrepreneurial initiatives. Our new tourist-friendly visa regime, which allows visitors from 126 countries to obtain fast-track visas without a fee, reflects our dedication to making Pakistan more accessible to the world. This will open new avenues for socioeconomic growth and global engagement. I appreciate the collaborative efforts of FPCCI, ICCD, and the provincial governments in promoting diverse forms of tourism—recreational, adventure, cultural, heritage, religious, eco, and sports tourism—across all regions of the country. Let us join hands to project Pakistan as a premier global tourist destination, known for its warmth, hospitality, and resilience. Together, we can harness the power of sustainable tourism to create economic opportunities, strengthen cultural bonds, and build a peaceful and prosperous future for generations to come.
H.E. Mr. Yousef H. Khalawi
“Pakistan, endowed with a rich cultural heritage, abundant natural resources, and guided by visionary leadership, has made significant strides in sustainable tourism. This is reflected in its rankings in the Global Muslim Travel Index 2024 and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2024, showcasing the country’s dedication to responsible tourism and environmental conservation. At ICCD, we are pleased to host the Sustainable Tourism Forum (STF) in Pakistan, which will serve as an international platform for sustainable tourism best practices across the Islamic world. This forum will bring together leaders, investors, and stakeholders from around the globe to promote sustainable tourism, foster economic growth, and empower local communities. As international tourism experienced significant growth in 2024, hitting USD 1.6 trillion, approximately 1.4 billion travelers journeyed abroad, reflecting an increase of 140 million additional international arrivals compared to 2023, STF aims to position Pakistan as a key destination for sustainable travel, opening new avenues for collaboration and investment across OIC countries. Together, we can shape a future where tourism becomes a powerful catalyst for prosperity, sustainability, and unity in the Islamic world, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for our communities and the world at large.”
H.E. Hissein Brahim Taha
We are gathered in Karachi to inaugurate the Sustainable Tourism Forum. On behalf of the OIC, I extend sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Pakistan, and to FPCCI, for their warm hospitality and excellent organization. Pakistan’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and preserving its rich cultural heritage is highly commendable.The Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) continues to play a vital role in engaging the private sector for socio-economic growth across OIC member states. Strengthened public-private partnerships are essential to realizing the full potential of the OIC tourism market.Tourism remains a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. It also promotes Islam’s values of tolerance, peace, and coexistence. Achieving sustainable tourism requires innovation, investment, and responsible practices, with active participation from the private sector.I invite all stakeholders to work together in transforming Pakistan into a premier global tourist destination. Wishing the Sustainable Tourism Forum 2025 great success.
H.E. Mr. Abdullah Saleh Kamel
President of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) “Achieving economic growth in an environmentally responsible manner has always been a fundamental objective for the Islamic Chamber, especially in a world where sustainability shapes its future. In line with this mission, ICCD stands at the forefront of fostering sustainability to build a thriving tourism landscape that develops Islamic local communities, and to achieve this ambitious vision, we introduce the 1st edition of the annual Sustainable Tourism Forum. Over the past decade, Pakistan has made a remarkable leap in responsible tourism and sustainability, inspiring the Islamic Chamber to select it as the host for its Sustainable Tourism Forum, aiming to position it as “The Capital of Sustainable Tourism in the Islamic World” to emphasize Pakistan’s vast tourism potential, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources. At ICCD, we are dedicated to fostering economic development while preserving the environment for future generations and establishing a long-term global framework that opens new opportunities for collaboration and investment in Pakistan and across the Islamic nation”.
H.E. Mr. Jam Kamal Khan
As the Commerce Minister of Pakistan, I am honored to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) for organizing the Sustainable Tourism Forum, scheduled for January 30-31, 2025 in Karachi. Tourism hold immense potential as a catalyst for economic growth, cultural exchange and sustainable development. Our nation’s diverse landscape, rich heritage, and warm hospitality position us uniquely to attract visitors from around the globe. Recognizing it strategic importance, the Ministry of Commerce has established the Sectoral Council on Tourism. This initiative provides a structured platform for public-private engagement, ensuring a collaborative approach to promoting tourism as a key driver of economic growth. The Council will work closely with industry stakeholder to identify challenges propose policy recommendation, and develop strategic frameworks to enhance Pakistan’s competitiveness in the global tourism market. Recent developments underscore the sector’ promise. Pakistan has improved it ranking in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index for 2024 reflecting the positive trajectory of our tourism sector. Tourism is not just about scenic landscapes and cultural heritage; it is a powerful economic tool that generates employment, attracts investment, and enhances Pakistan’s global image. By fostering better connectivity, facilitating ease of doing business and implementing targeted policy interventions, we aim to unlock the true potential of this sector.
I invite all stakeholders – both domestic and international – to join hands with us in this journey of transformation. Together, we can position Pakistan as a premier tourist destination, contributing to a more vibrant and prosperous economy. Wishing the Sustainable Tourism Forum 2025 a great success.
Atif Ikram Sheikh
It gives me great pleasure that the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), in collaboration with FPCCI and the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), organized the “Sustainable Tourism Forum” in Karachi on 30–31 January 2025 under the theme “Transforming Tourism for Community Development.”The OIC region, being geographically vast and rich in natural, historical, and cultural resources, holds immense potential for tourism development. With its diverse landscapes, moderate climate, and deep-rooted traditions, the region can attract international and domestic tourists, fostering cultural exchange, friendship, and economic prosperity.Tourism plays a vital role in promoting understanding among nations, creating employment, and strengthening local economies. Sustainable tourism practices that ensure environmental protection, social responsibility, and community benefit are essential for long-term growth.The Forum was highly successful and attended by participants from several OIC and non-OIC countries, providing opportunities to enhance trade, investment, and employment, while improving Pakistan’s image as a global tourist destination.Pakistan, blessed with scenic beauty, four distinct seasons, ancient civilizations, and rich cultural heritage, continues to promote tourism through progressive visa facilitation and infrastructure development, including initiatives for religious tourism.As President of FPCCI, I emphasize the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to promote eco-tourism, cultural heritage preservation, and community-based tourism projects. Together, we can unlock the full potential of Pakistan’s tourism industry, strengthen the OIC tourism network, and build a brighter, more prosperous future for our communities.
