ISLAMABAD, (Economy India): Pakistan’s historic city of Lahore has been named the Tourism and Cultural Capital of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for 2026-27, marking an important recognition of the city’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The decision was announced during the 26th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State, held in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the meeting, where leaders discussed cooperation among SCO member countries in several areas.
Lahore is widely regarded as Pakistan’s cultural centre and is known for its historic monuments, Mughal-era architecture, traditional cuisine, literature, music and vibrant arts scene. The city is home to several prominent heritage sites, including the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque and Walled City.
The SCO’s Tourism and Cultural Capital initiative is aimed at strengthening people-to-people contacts, cultural exchanges and tourism among member states. The title is rotated annually among SCO countries and has been awarded since 2022.
The initiative also provides the country holding the organisation’s rotating presidency with an opportunity to showcase its cultural heritage and promote its major tourist destinations to visitors from other SCO member states.
With Lahore receiving the title for 2026-27, Pakistan is expected to use the opportunity to highlight the city’s historical significance and attract greater international attention to its cultural and tourism sector.
Lahore has played an important role in the history of the Indian subcontinent and has developed into a major centre for education, arts, food and cultural activities. Its combination of ancient heritage and modern urban life makes it one of Pakistan’s most prominent tourist destinations.
The recognition could also encourage greater cultural cooperation between Pakistan and other SCO members, including through tourism programmes, cultural events, exhibitions and exchanges involving artists, historians and tourism professionals.
The designation is being seen as an opportunity for Pakistan to strengthen its tourism profile and present Lahore’s diverse cultural traditions to a wider international audience during its tenure as the SCO’s Tourism and Cultural Capital.
(Economy India)
