The Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) has named Lahore as its tourism capital for 2027, recognising the city’s rich cultural, historical and architectural heritage.
The announcement marks a major international honour for Pakistan and the Punjab province. A 25-member ECO delegation will visit Lahore from April 13 to officially confer the title.
The delegation, visiting on the invitation of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, will attend the ECO Council of Permanent Representatives meeting at the provincial secretariat.
Lahore joins a prestigious list of cities recognised by the ECO, which includes Erzurum in Türkiye for 2025 and Shahrisabz in Uzbekistan in previous years.
The designation, initiated in 2019, aims to promote the cultural and historical assets of the ECO region on a global scale. Member states include Pakistan, Iran, Türkiye, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
During the visit, delegates will tour iconic sites including the Walled City, witness the traditional Mela Chiraghan festival, and visit the Safe Cities Authority. A luncheon will also be hosted in their honour at the Governor House.
Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb welcomed the announcement, calling it a significant step in promoting the country’s heritage. “Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz wants the world to see the vibrant cultural landscape of Lahore,” she said.
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