Lahore Named SCO Tourism and Cultural Capital for 2026–27

Lahore has been named the Tourism and Cultural Capital of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for 2026-27, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of this Pakistani city. The announcement regarding this was made in the 26th SCO Heads of States Council meeting held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. This was also the occasion when Pakistan became the chairman of the organisation for the next year, that is, 2026-27. Lahore, famous for its Mughal monuments, Sufi traditions, and colonial architecture, will be showcased in an entire year of cultural events organized to promote tourism, heritage, and cultural exchanges between SCO member countries.

Why Was Lahore Selected?

Lahore is one of the historically important cities of South Asia and acts as the capital of Punjab Province in Pakistan.

It has a rich cultural history with Mughal, Sufi and colonial influences prevailing in the city. The landmarks include the Lahore Fort, Shalimar Gardens, Badshahi Mosque, and historic walled city of Lahore.

Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Lahore as Tourism and Cultural Capital of SCO

SCO’s Tourism and Cultural Capital project aims at promoting heritage preservation, tourism, and cultural exchange among its member states.

For the duration of 2026–27, Lahore will be designated as the destination for various cultural events by SCO member states that will promote the heritage of the city, along with fostering more people to people and cultural exchanges within the organization.

Pakistan Assumes Chairmanship of SCO

Lahore’s designation is also timed with Pakistan’s chairmanship of the SCO for 2026–27.

Pakistan has themed its chairmanship tenure as “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity.”

Chairmanship gives Pakistan the chance to organize various meetings and events aimed at cooperation in various spheres of engagement of SCO, which include connectivity, culture, tourism, and economic cooperation.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: What Is It?

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is an intergovernmental association of Eurasia founded in 2001.

Its members are China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Iran. Belarus is a member from 2024 onwards.

SCO Council of Heads of States is the supreme decision-making organ of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.