LAHORE:
A group of recognized Pakistani cyclists stood out in a cultural expedition and international tourism to Central Asia under the initiative of the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP).
The group of 15 members aims to strengthen tourist ties between four member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO): Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tayikistan and Uzbekistan. The cyclists were seen by the managing director of TDCP, Dr. Nasir Mehmood at the tourist bus terminal, located at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Talking with The express trusteeThe group leader, Mukarram Tareen, shared that the trip will cover 23 days and cover approximately 5,000 kilometers, crossing historical, cultural and natural milestones in Afghanistan, Tayikistan and Uzbekistan.
“Our route will take us from Islamabad to Kabul, Kandahar, Samarcanda, Bukhara and Tashkent. We plan to remain in these cities and commit ourselves to local communities. The main objective of this expedition is to promote peaceful relations, regional friendship and cultural harmony,” Tareen said.
Another member of the group, Nazar Saeed Khan, said that the land route to the republics of Central Asia has remained inactive for a long time. “Our goal is to connect with cycling clubs in Afghanistan, Tayikistan and Uzbekistan, and invite them to visit Pakistan. Such exchanges can boost tourism and provide opportunities to experience the cultures of others first hand,” he added.
TDCP MD Dr. Nasir Mehmood praised the initiative as a historical step to promote regional friendship, cultural integration and bilateral tourism.
“This bicycle rally aligns with the preparations for Lahore that will declare the tourist capital in 2027 and reflects the Punjab government commitment to offer international tourism facilities,” he said.
In addition, he emphasized that such healthy and adventurous activities not only promote well -being tourism but also portray Pakistan as a peaceful, harmonious and cozy country on the global stage.
This initiative stands out as a practical example of using tourism as a diplomatic bridge, which d.
