The event organized by Sindh University’s Area Study Centre in collaboration with the Sindh Higher Education Commission and the Culture & Tourism Department, Government of Sindh, gathered scholars from across the country to present research papers on tourism development. The final recommendations from the conference will be submitted to the Government of Sindh for policy consideration.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Sindh University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman Khoumbhati welcomed scholars, experts and guests from around the world, appreciating their contributions to the advancement of the tourism sector.

“I congratulate the organizers of this conference for their outstanding efforts in putting together such a well-planned and impactful event. Your commitment to fostering dialogue on tourism development is commendable,” he stated.

Dr. Khoumbhati expressed gratitude to the sponsors, particularly the Sindh Higher Education Commission and the Culture Department for their support in making the conference possible.

He emphasized that Pakistan had immense tourism potential but must learn from successful models in Southeast Asia to fully capitalize on its resources.

“This conference provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices and explore innovative strategies for developing Pakistan’s tourism sector,” he added.

Speaking at the event, Consul General of the Royal Thai Consulate in Karachi, Surashete Boontinand expressed his delight at visiting Sindh University and underscored the significance of tourism in Thailand’s economy.

“Thailand is renowned for its tourism industry. In 2024, Bangkok was the most visited city in the world, and last year, Thailand ranked 12th globally in terms of tourist numbers. Tourism contributes 17% to Thailand’s GDP,” he said.

He said that successful tourism strategies went beyond visitor numbers and must focus on improving the quality of services, length of stay and overall experience.

He noted that Thailand had been using tourism to enhance diplomatic relations and promote sustainable economic growth.

“Pakistan and Thailand have sought to deepen bilateral ties in trade, investment, education, security and tourism. Pakistan’s vision on East Asia Policy aligns well with Thailand’s Look West Policy. The Royal Thai Embassy is eager to collaborate with Pakistan on tourism development,” he added.

Deputy Consul General of the Royal Thai Consulate in Karachi Panutat Yodkaew provided insights into how Thailand transformed into a global tourism hub.

“Before becoming a major tourist destination, Thailand was primarily visited by traders, explorers and diplomats. The country’s strategic location in Southeast Asia made it an important trading hub,” he explained.

He highlighted key milestones in Thailand’s tourism history, from the construction of modern infrastructure in the 1950s to the rise of luxury, eco-tourism, and adventure tourism in the 1990s and 2000s.

“Thailand’s tourism strategy now focuses on sustainable growth, high-value tourism and diversifying destinations. We believe Pakistan can benefit from similar approaches to develop its tourism industry,” he suggested.

Former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Karachi Professor (Meritorious) Dr. Moonis Ahmar emphasized the importance of tourism as a key economic driver.

“Pakistan is known for its rich cultural heritage, towering peaks, glaciers, rivers, deserts and coastline. The country has great potential in eco-tourism, cultural tourism, Sufi tourism, religious tourism and archaeological tourism,” he stated.

He argued that Pakistan could generate $20 billion annually from tourism if proper measures were taken, including improving infrastructure, ensuring security and fostering a tourist-friendly environment.

“The countries of Southeast Asia, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam have successfully established a culture of tourism where millions of visitors contribute to their economies. Pakistan must learn from their models,” he added.

The conference emphasized several actionable strategies to boost Pakistan’s tourism industry, which include marketing Tourist Destinations, promoting Pakistan’s historical sites, mountains, lakes, deserts & coastline to international audiences, creating a Tourist-Friendly Culture, ensuring safety, quality services and essential facilities for tourists.

According to the initial recommendations Pakistan should have strategic planning by which the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) and other stakeholders should devise a five-year plan for sustainable tourism growth.

There should be Visa-Free Access & Improved Airport Services, infrastructure development and Public-Private Partnerships.

Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Professor Dr Hamadullah Kakepoto, Vice Chancellor University of Mirpurkhas Professor Dr Rafique Ahmed Memon, Director Area Study Centre and conference convener Dr Mukesh Kumar Khatwani, conference secretary Dr Naureen Nazar Soomro said that as Pakistan looked to revamp its tourism sector, lessons from Southeast Asia could serve as a guiding framework.

They said that with strategic planning, investment in infrastructure and a commitment to sustainable practices, the country had the potential to emerge as a leading tourist destination in the region.

The conference will conclude tomorrow with recommendations for sustainable tourism growth in Pakistan. The final policy recommendations from the event will be forwarded to the Sindh government for implementation.