BAHAWALPUR (Dunya News) - Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision, stating that Punjab is witnessing a revival of cultural and tourism activities.
Speaking at the Cholistan Jeep Rally, she said the recent celebration of Basant in Lahore after 25 years brought joy to the public.
She added that it was former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s wish to restore Basant and promote local culture in Punjab.
Congratulating the participants of the rally, Aurangzeb highlighted the event’s international significance, noting that drivers from other countries also took part.
She emphasized that such cultural festivals not only promote heritage but also create employment opportunities.
Aurangzeb noted Nawaz Sharif’s love for local culture and the Cholistan region, crediting him with notable development work in the area.
She mentioned that Derawar Fort, once in ruins, is now being restored, and under CM Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, historical sites across Punjab are being preserved for tourism.
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She stressed that events like Basant help the youth connect with their culture, countering the influence of foreign traditions seen online.
She announced that the Chief Minister herself will attend next year’s Cholistan Jeep Rally.
Aurangzeb also paid tribute to ASI officers martyred during the rally, stating that legislation has been initiated to ensure full protection for all future participants.
She added that a tourism authority has been established for the first time to systematically promote the sector, and commended the entire tourism department for their efforts in restoring Punjab’s cultural vibrancy.