Peshawar: The governments of Pakistan and Thailand have announced their decision to undertake collaborative efforts for the promotion of religious tourism between the two countries, a news source reported. As per details, the officials recently began a consultative process with an aim to introduce meditation services for Buddhists at the community’s religious sites located in Pakistan.
Thailand’s Chief Monk Arayawangso, who was accompanied by a nine-member delegation during his visit to Pakistan, stated that this measure would boost religious tourism as well the economy of Pakistan. He expressed his view on the matter during his visit to the Peshawar Museum and historical Buddhist sites at Takht-i-Bahi.
The Chief Monk, during a press briefing, said that the delegation might meditate at the local Buddhist sites for three to five days. He added that Buddhists and non-Buddhists from other countries were welcome to join them.
According to the Chief Monk, the religious affairs minister in Pakistan had assured the delegation that the government would extend its full support to them, and had also shared with the dignitaries the executive’s plan to promote religious tourism.
The Chief Monk appreciated the hospitality shown by Pakistanis, and stated that the country was a safe place to visit. He added that he planned on speaking with representatives from about 30 countries that had significant Buddhist populations; so that they could formulise plans to increase the number of Buddhist visitors who frequented the holy sites in Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the delegation members performed some traditional rituals during their visit. As per reports, these individuals are expected to visit other Buddhist sites located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
