ISLAMABAD: Tunisian Chargé d’Affaires Ms Dorsaf Maaroufi on Sunday said there is a big potential for promotion of tourism between the two countries.

Addressing a meeting hosted by Emirates Airlines’ Islamabad office, he highlighted Tunisia’s unique position as the “gateway to Africa” and its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant tourism opportunities.

Representatives of various Pakistani travel agencies gathered at the meeting to discuss collaborative efforts to promote Tunisia as a premier tourist destination for Pakistani travelers.

Tunisian diplomat Ms Maaroufi delivered a comprehensive presentation, highlighting Tunisia’s strategic importance as an attractive and secure destination for tourists worldwide.

This initiative is expected to deepen tourism connections between Tunisia and Pakistan, creating avenues for cultural exchange and economic collaboration. It underscores both nations’ commitment to fostering closer relations through travel and tourism.

She emphasized that despite its small size, Tunisia had numerous Unesco-recognised treasures, including eight cultural sites and a national park, as well as many historical monuments and towns reflecting a fascinating blend of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and French influences.

Tunisia also offers a diverse landscape, from the lush hills and agricultural plains of the north to the olive groves in the center and the mystical deserts of the south.

Ms Maaroufi highlighted Tunisia’s emerging initiatives in sustainable and cultural tourism, which are drawing visitors beyond the traditional beach resorts and into the heart of the country, exploring spice markets, olive groves and artisan workshops.

Tunisia remains an affordable destination for budget travelers while offering upscale options for those seeking luxury.

She also noted the Unesco-listed archaeological site of Carthage, renowned for its ancient ruins spanning Phoenician, Punic, Roman, Paleochristian, and Arab eras, and mentioned the ease of the visa tourist policy with the framework of organised trips of the Tunisian visa policy.

Ammad Rasheed, Honorary Consul of Tunisia in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Dean of Honorary Consul Generals in KP said fostering stronger trade relations between the two nations is need of the day which, according to him, would greatly benefit them.

The meeting reflects a shared commitment between Tunisia and Pakistan to strengthen their relationship through tourism, cultural exchange, and economic partnership.

Published in Dawn, September 9th, 2024