UK Parliamentarians Push for Tourism and Investment in Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Key Developments:
- Tourism Promotion: British MPs Iqbal Muhammad and Naz Shah are encouraging overseas Pakistanis and Kashmiris to visit Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage this summer.
- Investment Talks: MP Muhammad met with AJK Tourism Secretary Chaudhry Abdul Rehman to discuss tourism sector investments, job creation, and public-private partnerships (PPP).
- Government Incentives: The AJK Tourism Promotion Act (2019) offers tax breaks, land leases, and streamlined approvals to attract investors in eco-resorts, adventure tourism, and infrastructure.
- Diaspora Engagement: Both MPs pledged to connect UK-based investors with AJK stakeholders, highlighting the Kashmiri diaspora’s role in boosting economic and cultural ties.
Why It Matters:
- Economic Growth: Tourism development could create jobs and boost AJK’s economy.
- Global Exposure: Increased visits from British Pakistanis/Kashmiris could position AJK as an emerging tourist destination.
- Soft Diplomacy: Strengthening ties between AJK and the UK diaspora may foster greater international awareness of the region.
Next Steps:
- MP Visits: Both Iqbal Muhammad and Naz Shah accepted invitations to tour AJK and assess investment opportunities.
- Social Media Campaigns: MP Shah will use her platform to promote AJK tourism among British travelers.
- Investor Outreach: The AJK government will engage with UK-based entrepreneurs to develop eco-tourism and hospitality projects.
Bottom Line:
This initiative signals a growing push to showcase AJK’s tourism potential while leveraging diaspora connections for economic growth. If successful, it could bring new investment, jobs, and global visibility to the region.
