Speaking at the launch ceremony, Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Tourism Sardar Yasir Ilyas highlighted the significance of the rally; Ambassador of Pakistan to Uzbekistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, also addressed the gathering, terming the event a joyous occasion
SAIFULLAH ANSAR/DNA
ISLAMABAD, Aug 1 – The Central Asia Friendship Rally was formally launched from Islamabad, aiming to promote peace, tourism, regional connectivity, and Pakistan’s soft image across Central Asian countries. Eleven bikers will ride through Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan in a journey spanning 5,000 kilometers, carrying a message of friendship and cultural unity.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Tourism Sardar Yasir Ilyas highlighted the significance of the rally. “These bikers are ambassadors of peace, culture, and regional cooperation,” he said. “This initiative will showcase Pakistan’s soft image and promote our tourism potential on an international stage.”
He further emphasized the role of media in portraying Pakistan positively. “We urge the media to highlight such positive initiatives. Pakistani people are known for their hospitality and do not charge tourists; this is our strength,” he remarked.
Sardar Yasir Ilyas also acknowledged the valuable support of the ambassadors of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, appreciating their collaboration in making the rally possible. “This rally is a step towards greater regional connectivity,” he added.
He also shared that Pakistan is in the process of developing its first-ever National Tourism Policy, which will be a joint framework with input from all stakeholders. “Tourism is not just about travel, it’s an economic driver,” he said. “We aim to enhance both Pakistan’s image and its economy through the promotion of sustainable tourism.”
Ambassador of Pakistan to Uzbekistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, also addressed the gathering, terming the event a joyous occasion. “This rally, starting from our brother country, will pass through Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan,” he said. “You will not only traverse mountains and tough terrains but will also serve as ambassadors of peace.”
He added, “This rally will boost tourism and enhance people-to-people ties between our nations.”
Managing Director of PTDC (Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation), Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, praised the uniqueness of the initiative. “This is no ordinary trip; this is a journey that highlights our culture and promotes mutual understanding among friendly nations,” he noted.
He also commended the lead biker, Mukarram Tareen, for his leadership. “This ride will not only strengthen tourism ties but serve as a bridge between the people of these nations,” said Rana.
Mukarram Tareen, who is leading the rally, said: “This is a 5,000-kilometer-long journey with eleven bikers, and we are carrying a message of peace and love. Our brother countries – Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan – are close to our hearts, and we aim to deepen the bonds with their people.”
The Central Asia Friendship Rally is not just a bike journey; it is a symbolic voyage to reinforce cultural ties, regional cooperation, and mutual peace among neighboring states through the power of tourism and people-to-people contact.
