ISLAMABAD: Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan has stated that it is time to show the world the real and positive aspects of Balochistan.
He was speaking at the Balochistan Grand Tourism Festival, where he emphasized the need to highlight the province’s beauty, culture, and the patriotism of its people to counter negative perceptions.
Minister Khan described the people of Balochistan as patriotic and proud custodians of their cultural heritage. He said promoting investment and tourism through such festivals is key to strengthening the province’s economy.
“The province should be known for its culture and natural beauty, not for a few negative incidents,” the Minister said.
Also speaking at the event, Nawabzada Mir Muhammad Zarin Khan Magsi said the festival is crucial for highlighting the true identity of Balochistan.
The Balochistan Grand Tourism Festival is currently being held at Lok Virsa in Islamabad. The event features music, handicrafts, food stalls, and cultural exhibits, serving as a vibrant display of the province’s heritage and landscapes.
Also read: Jam Kamal: Pakistan to facilitate Turkish investment in CPEC zones
he three-day Balochistan Grand Tourism Festival opened at Lok Virsa in Islamabad on Friday, aiming to promote the province’s cultural heritage and tourism potential.
Organised by the Balochistan Department of Tourism and Culture in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), the festival seeks to project a positive image of the province across Pakistan and abroad.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti is scheduled to inaugurate the event, while Governor Sheikh Jafar Khan Mandokhail will serve as guest of honour at the closing ceremony.
The festival features panel discussions, photo and art exhibitions, handicraft displays, folk music, and traditional dance performances. Organisers plan similar events in Quetta, Gwadar, and Karachi to promote domestic tourism and showcase Balochistan’s cultural diversity.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club, Balochistan Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and Culture Zareen Magsi said the event marks the first time such a large-scale festival has been organised at Lok Virsa. She said the initiative would “promote and showcase the province’s rich culture to the world.”
Magsi described Balochistan as a land of cultural and natural diversity, citing sites such as the Hinglaj Mata Temple, Mulla Chotok springs, and the Gwadar coastline. She said folk and theatre artists would depict the region’s traditions through live performances during the festival.
