Pakistan

Tourism help promote positive image of Balochistan: Chinese scholar

Published

4 years ago

January 2, 2021

Editor

BEIJING, Jan 2 (APP): Government’s initiatives to improve security situation in Balochistan and projects launched under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have created a number of opportunities for tourist to explore natural beauty of the province.

“I think it’s fair to say that the continuous development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), especially the construction of Gwadar Port, has brought a new hope to Balochistan, which has been backward for a long time and has also created conditions for the development of tourism and cultural industry in the province.”

This was stated by Cheng Xizhong, visiting professor at Southwest University of Political Science and Law in his article published by China Economic Net (CEN) on Saturday.

According to media reports, the Balochistan government has launched seven projects to promote tourism in coastal areas of the province on which work is in progress.

A meeting chaired by the chief minister discussed promotion of tourism, culture, archeology and development schemes at tourist sites in Balochistan.

A master plan has been prepared for the promotion of tourism and work on eco-tourism resorts is also underway at seven places in the coastal areas of the province.

As per the master plan, model beach parks will be established at Gadani, Kund Malir, Ormara, Pasni and Gwadar to provide maximum facilities to tourists.

The master plan for the development of tourism facilities in Ziarat and Shaban valleys has also been prepared.

In Balochistan, tourism offices will be set up at divisional levels, and tourism information centers will be opened along major highways.

The Balochistan government believes that the promotion of tourism, arts and culture will highlight the positive image of Balochistan

Balochistan, the largest provinces of the country, spreads over an area of 347,190 square kilometers, accounting 43.6 percent of the total area of Pakistan. Balochistan has a population of 7.167 million, accounting for five percent of Pakistan’s total population.

Physically, Balochistan is an extensive plateau of rough terrain divided into basins by ranges of sufficient heights and ruggedness. Broadly, Balochistan’s geographic area can be divided into four distinct zones: Upper high lands, lower high lands, plains, and deserts.

The coastal-line is about 760 kilometers long, with a number of peninsulas and promontories.

The coastal area is not effectively connected with the interior and the steep hills rise abruptly beyond the narrow coastal plain. Ports, such as Somiani, Pasni and Gwadar are unsheltered.

Federal and provincial governments have comprehensive development plans that feature a deep-sea port at Gwadar and a coastal highway.

“I think it’s fair to say that the continuous development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), especially the construction of Gwadar Port, has brought a new hope to Balochistan, which has been poor and backward for a long time and has also created conditions for the development of tourism and cultural industry in the province,” Cheng Xizhong said.

As one of the pillars of CPEC, Gwadar Port provides a series of convenience measures for investors. At present, Gwadar Port has great potential in sewage treatment, power generation, entrepot trade of oil and gas, storage, and development of export bonded areas.

More than 30 investment companies from China have invested RMB 3 billion. The new airport and other infrastructure projects are under construction. In the future, the infrastructure level of Gwadar Port will reach a height

In terms of investment, in addition to the preferential measures of the federal government, the Balochistan government has also provided 23 years of tax exemption, 100% exemption of equipment import duties at the construction and operation stages of the project, 99 years of land lease, flexible visa management measures, supporting infrastructure and security measures.

Gwadar Port is located along the Arabian Sea and at the junction of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Maritime Silk Road. It is a natural deep-water and ice-free port with unique geographical advantages.

At present, Balochistan has two special economic zones under development, namely Bostan special economic zone and Hub special economic zone.

In the economic zones, the government has provided a series of incentive policies, including the preferential supply of natural gas, electric power and other infrastructure, friendly visa policy for enterprises entering the zones, one-time reduction and exemption of import tariff of machinery and equipment, 10-year income tax reduction and exemption, five-year income tax reduction and exemption, etc.

In the development mode, it mainly adopts the combination of government development, private development and cooperation between government and social capital.

“It is worth mentioning in particular that the security situation in Balochistan has improved to a certain extent due to the government’s effective measures.

If Balochistan continues to make efforts to fundamentally improve its security situation, it will greatly attract international tourists and tourism and cultural industry will be greatly developed, ” Cheng Xizhong concluded.

Pakistan

“Through Iqbal’s Words, We Find the Spirit to Soar as One Nation”

Published

1 week ago

November 9, 2024

EDITOR

a poet, philosopher, and politician but also a visionary who planted the seeds of unity, self-respect, and resilience in the hearts of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. Iqbal’s words were the catalysts that motivated people to recognize their potential, unite under a shared purpose, and ultimately pave the way for an independent Pakistan. His poetry and philosophy still resonate, reminding us of the values we hold dear and the power of unity, faith, and discipline in overcoming challenges.

Iqbal’s Philosophy: A Call to Selfhood and Unity

Iqbal was deeply influenced by the concept of “Khudi,” or selfhood, which he introduced as an idea of recognizing and cultivating the inner strength within each individual. He encouraged Muslims to develop their personal and spiritual strength, advocating for a life driven by purpose and unwavering resolve. For Iqbal, the idea of “Khudi” was not merely about individual development but about understanding that one’s personal strength contributes to the strength of the entire nation.

He also emphasized unity, which he saw as an essential component for the progress and survival of any community. Iqbal believed that unity was the bedrock upon which a nation could stand strong, and he used his poetry to inspire a collective identity that transcended individual differences. His call to unity was not just for the Muslims of India but for all who valued justice, peace, and a meaningful life.

The Message of Faith and Discipline

Iqbal’s poetry speaks powerfully about faith—faith in God, in oneself, and in the potential of a unified community. His famous verse, Sitaron se aage jahan aur bhi hain, abhi ishq ke imtihan aur bhi hain (There are worlds beyond the stars, and many more tests of love to come), exemplifies his belief that faith could elevate one’s spirit to new heights. Iqbal saw faith as an energizing force that could help people transcend their limitations, reach their aspirations, and maintain hope in the face of adversity.

For Iqbal, discipline was the natural partner of faith. He believed that true faith must be complemented by discipline to channel energy into productive efforts. In his view, a disciplined nation, united in its principles, would have the resilience to face any challenge, no matter how overwhelming.

Inspiring Pakistan’s Youth: Iqbal’s Enduring Legacy

Iqbal’s influence extends beyond his lifetime, continuing to inspire generations. His poetry and philosophy encourage today’s youth to take pride in their heritage, recognize their potential, and work for a prosperous future. Pakistan’s youth, often regarded as the nation’s greatest asset, can find guidance in Iqbal’s call for unity, faith, and discipline. In a world filled with distractions, his message remains clear: true progress lies in developing oneself and working together for the greater good.

Unity in Diversity: Building a Nation

Iqbal’s vision of Pakistan was one where people, regardless of ethnic or linguistic background, would come together as one. His poetry remains a symbol of this unity, speaking of brotherhood and harmony. He knew that for Pakistan to succeed, its people would have to put aside their differences and focus on a shared goal. This vision is especially relevant today, as a diverse Pakistan works toward the common ideals that Iqbal cherished.

Conclusion: Soaring Together as One Nation

Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood, unity, faith, and discipline is a timeless message. His words urge us to become better versions of ourselves and to use our strengths to build a stronger, more united Pakistan. By embracing his teachings, we can truly embody the spirit that drives a nation forward. As Pakistan continues to face challenges, Iqbal’s words serve as a reminder that by standing together with a shared vision, Pakistan can not only overcome any adversity but also soar to greater heights.