Karachi: The Sustainable Tourism Forum & Expo (STF) 2026, organized by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), concluded successfully in Karachi, marking a major step forward in promoting multilateral tourism cooperation among member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Held under the theme “Transforming Tourism for Community Development,” the high-level forum brought together ministers, senior policymakers, investors, tourism leaders, and industry experts from across the OIC region and beyond. The discussions focused on sustainable tourism development, investment opportunities, climate responsibility, and community-driven economic growth.
The forum was organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Commerce (MoC) and the Board of Investment (BOI), Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), and AlBaraka Bank Pakistan.
Welcoming the participants, H.E. Yousef Hassan Khalawi, Secretary General of ICCD, emphasized that sustainable tourism extends beyond destinations to empower local communities. He noted that aligning investment with environmental responsibility and inclusive development is essential to ensure long-term benefits across OIC countries.
In his keynote address, H.E. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, described tourism as a strategic economic sector and a catalyst for employment, investment, and cultural exchange. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to developing tourism as a driver of sustainable growth, supporting industries such as hospitality, transport, recreation, and local enterprises.
Special messages from the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Federal Minister for Commerce were shared, reiterating the government’s resolve to create an enabling environment for tourism-related investment and international collaboration.
Addressing the ministerial session, H.E. Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh, Federal Minister of Investment, highlighted Pakistan’s rich historical and cultural heritage, noting that improved infrastructure and increased investment are key to unlocking the country’s vast tourism potential. He described the forum as an effective platform for regional networking and cooperation.
Mr. Muhammad Atif Hanif, President & CEO of AlBaraka Bank Pakistan, underlined the role of targeted financial solutions and long-term investment frameworks in developing sustainable tourism destinations and strengthening the national economy.
The forum was attended by delegates from numerous OIC member states, including Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Iran, Ivory Coast, Malaysia, Singapore, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Afghanistan, and others. A parallel Culture and Tourism Exhibition showcased Pakistan’s tourism offerings alongside the cultural heritage of participating countries, highlighting regional destinations and investment prospects.
The successful conclusion of the ICCD Sustainable Tourism Forum & Expo 2026 reinforced Pakistan’s position as an emerging hub for sustainable tourism and strengthened partnerships among OIC countries in advancing inclusive and responsible tourism development.
