25/10/2026
🌍🐪 International Silk Route Festival 2026 Opens in Islamabad, Promoting Tourism, Trade and Cultural Diplomacy
The International Silk Route Festival 2026 commenced on 24 October at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), Islamabad. Organised by Silk Route Enterprises in collaboration with the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) under the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, provincial tourism departments, and private-sector stakeholders, the festival brings together diplomats, government officials, tourism professionals, business leaders, international delegates, and youth to celebrate cultural heritage and strengthen regional cooperation.
Mr. Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Tourism and Chief Guest, highlighted Pakistan’s potential for tourism, trade, and investment across the Silk Route region. He appreciated the organisers’ efforts and proposed a dedicated task force to promote regional cooperation through coordinated engagement among government institutions, the private sector, and international partners.
Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director, PTDC, emphasised Pakistan’s diverse tourism attractions, rich cultural heritage, and strategic geographical connectivity, highlighting the importance of international tourism cooperation, attracting visitors, and strengthening economic and cultural partnerships.
The Silk Route Festival Organizers Ms. Sadaf Khalid, Mr. Mian Hashim Masood, and Prince Shehryar Khan, Directors of Silk Route Enterprises, welcomed distinguished guests and international delegations, underscoring the festival’s vision of reviving the spirit of the ancient Silk Route, strengthening Pakistan’s connections with Central Asian countries, and fostering ties with the wider international community through tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
🌐 The participation of distinguished diplomatic representatives and international delegates from Sri Lanka and Malaysia further strengthened the festival’s role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and international cooperation.
✨ Connecting Nations | Promoting Pakistan | Reviving the Silk Route Legacy 🌍🐪