Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry Sunday said due to multiple initiatives taken by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, the country is set to become a hub of tourism.
Addressing a ceremony held in connection with Jashn-e-Jehlum at Rohtas Fort, the minister said the government has identified 16 cultural events to be celebrated at the official level, which include Kailash Mela in Chitral, Qawwali Festival in Islamabad during the holy month of Ramazan, Sachal Sarmast Urs in Sindh and Mela Chiraghan in Lahore.
“Pakistan is a beautiful country, which is misunderstood by many. It is a country of mountains. It has a history. It is a country of religions,” he said. On the right side of the Jhelum city, there is Mangla Fort while on its left is Tillah Jogian and Katas Raj, he said. The Buddha religion has its origin from the area, he added.
Welcoming the foreign guests, Fawad said the area has a rich history, with being an abode of beautiful people. Jhelum is a beautiful city as it is also a land of warriors and kings, he said. “The origin of word India is actually attributed to this area,” he revealed, adding that the Rohtas Fort has its historical importance in South Asia and several such places in the area can attract tourists.
The minister expressed the hope that the initiatives like Jashan-e-Jehlum will be translated into much bigger things and the country will ultimately become a hub of tourism very soon. He said Prime Minister Imran Khan is taking keen interest in promoting tourism and several innovative steps are being taken in this regard by the government.
The minister welcomed the distinguished guests, including diplomats, National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri, corps commander Mangla, Information Secretary Shafqat Jaleel, journalists and the local notables.
A 28-minute documentary on the history of Jhelum from Alexander the Great to date was also shown to the audience. Foreign dignitaries and media persons were also sensitized about the history of the gigantic fort built on the order of Sher Shah Suri in 1541 AD. A sound and light show was arranged, narrating the history of fort, to promote the country’s rich cultural heritage.