LAHORE / BISHKEK — September 2, 2026 — The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) has officially designated Lahore as its Tourism and Cultural Capital for 2026–2027 during the 26th SCO Council of Heads of State Summit.
Official Recognition & Strategic Significance
Rotational Heritage Title: The designation rotates annually among member nations to foster people-to-people ties, highlight historic architecture, and boost cross-border tourism across Eurasian states.
Pakistan's SCO Chairmanship: The announcement coincides with Pakistan assuming the rotating presidency of the SCO Council for 2026–2027 under the theme "Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity".
Prestigious Cohort: Lahore joins a distinguished list of former SCO cultural capitals, including Varanasi (India), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Qingdao (China), and Cholpon-Ata (Kyrgyzstan).
Upcoming Events & Tourism Drive
Heritage Preservation: Municipal and provincial authorities are launching restoration drives across the Walled City of Lahore, Shalimar Gardens, and surrounding historical corridors.
Cultural Expos: Punjab plans to host regional craft expos, international culinary showcases, literary summits, and music festivals welcoming delegates from all SCO countries.
Economic & Hospitality Growth: Tourism operators and local businesses expect an influx of international travelers and investment in heritage hospitality infrastructure.
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