Turkiye CG Highlights Tourism as Key Driver of Economic Growth

Consul General of the Republic of Turkiye in Karachi, Ergul Kadak has emphasized that tourism represents a “low-hanging fruit” for Pakistan’s economic growth, which, if developed properly, could significantly reduce external financing requirements of the country.

Pakistan offers immense potential with its scenic coastlines, pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. Highlighting these strengths, he emphasized during a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) that the country’s diverse attractions can play a vital role in promoting tourism and driving economic growth, according to a statement issued here.

The Turkish Consul General, while responding to suggestions regarding attracting Turkish tourists to Pakistan, stressed that secure and facilitating environment along with positive and credible success stories are essential to encourage tourism flows.

Drawing parallels with Istanbul’s challenges during the 1990s, he observed that Karachi faces similar issues today but also possesses comparable potential for transformation.

He further advised to actively engage social media influencers to project a positive image of Pakistan and Karachi, noting that modern tourists, particularly from Turkiye, rely heavily on online platforms for travel-related information.

Responding to queries regarding visa processing delays, Turkish CG clarified that applicants generally receive their passports within two weeks, which he described as an acceptable processing timeframe. He stated that approximately 95 percent of visa applications are processed within this period and added that the visa issuance system has improved significantly, with two weeks now serving as the standard benchmark.

The Turkish Consul General, while responding to suggestions regarding attracting Turkish tourists to Pakistan, stressed that secure and facilitating environment along with positive and credible success stories are essential to encourage tourism flows.

Drawing parallels with Istanbul’s challenges during the 1990s, he observed that Karachi faces similar issues today but also possesses comparable potential for transformation.

He further advised to actively engage social media influencers to project a positive image of Pakistan and Karachi, noting that modern tourists, particularly from Turkiye, rely heavily on online platforms for travel-related information.

Responding to queries regarding visa processing delays, Turkish CG clarified that applicants generally receive their passports within two weeks, which he described as an acceptable processing timeframe. He stated that approximately 95 percent of visa applications are processed within this period and added that the visa issuance system has improved significantly, with two weeks now serving as the standard benchmark.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to further strengthen Pakistan–Turkiye economic and commercial cooperation and to translate longstanding friendship into tangible economic outcomes.