AI-generated fake videos are playing havoc with the tourism industry of Kaghan and Naran

PRESS RELEASE

Islamabad, 31 August 2026: The Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Pakistan, in collaboration with the Uzbekistan Tourist Information Center Pakistan, organized the “Uzbekistan – Where History Meets the Future” Road Show and Uzbekistan Tourism Excellence Awards 2026 at the Marriott Hotel Islamabad.

The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, tourism industry leaders, travel agents, airline representatives, media professionals and other stakeholders with the objective of further strengthening tourism cooperation and people-to-people ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

The ceremony commenced with recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthems of Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

H.E. Alisher Tukhtaev, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the growing relationship between the two brotherly countries and the important role of tourism in bringing their peoples closer together.

The gathering was also addressed by H.E. Aftab Ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC).

Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, H.E. Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, Advisor & National Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Tourism, emphasized the tremendous potential for tourism cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan. He highlighted the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two countries and stressed that improved air connectivity, closer cooperation among tour operators and stronger private-sector engagement could significantly increase two-way tourism.

A special presentation on the tourism potential of Uzbekistan was delivered by Hamid Mahmood, Uzbekistan Tourism Brand Ambassador, showcasing Uzbekistan as one of Central Asia’s most fascinating destinations. The presentation highlighted the country’s legendary Silk Road heritage, magnificent historical cities, rich Islamic and cultural heritage, modern tourism infrastructure and growing appeal for Pakistani travellers.

Promotional videos offered guests a glimpse of Uzbekistan’s unique tourism attractions, while Centrum Air/Gerry’s International delivered a presentation highlighting air connectivity and opportunities to facilitate travel between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

A major highlight of the evening was the Uzbekistan Tourism Excellence Awards 2026, conducted by Abiha Hamid, Manager, Uzbekistan Tourist Information Center Pakistan.

The awards recognized travel and tourism organizations for their contribution and dedicated efforts towards the promotion of Uzbekistan tourism in Pakistan. The recipients included A2Z Travel Islamabad, Bukhari Travels Lahore, Gerry’s International, Holiday Planner, Ibex Global Tours, Travel Adviser Islamabad, Travzila Islamabad, Welcome Travel Karachi, Uzbekistan Tourist Information Center Islamabad, Uzbekistan Airways and Centrum Air.

Special awards were also presented to H.E. Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, H.E. Aftab Ur Rehman Rana and H.E. Alisher Tukhtaev in recognition of their support and contribution to tourism cooperation and the strengthening of relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan.

The event concluded with a group photograph, followed by a colourful cultural performance and dinner.

The “Uzbekistan – Where History Meets the Future” Road Show reflected the increasing momentum in tourism relations between Pakistan and Uzbekistan and provided an important platform for government institutions, airlines, tour operators and travel industry professionals to explore new opportunities for cooperation.

Uzbekistan continues to emerge as an increasingly attractive destination for Pakistani travellers, offering a unique combination of history, Islamic heritage, culture, hospitality and modern tourism experiences.