Pakistan has started construction of a new State Lounge at Islamabad International Airport ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit scheduled for August 2027. The facility aims to improve hospitality and protocol arrangements for visiting international leaders and foreign delegations.
Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif performed the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) also attended the event.
New Lounge to Welcome Foreign Dignitaries
The new State Lounge will provide dedicated facilities for visiting heads of state, foreign dignitaries, senior government officials and international delegations. Moreover, the project aims to strengthen Islamabad Airport’s capacity to host important diplomatic engagements.
During the ceremony, Asif unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the formal beginning of construction. He also participated in a tree plantation activity, highlighting the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
PAA Director General Air Vice Marshal Mohammad Shahid Afzaal highlighted the importance of improving airport facilities before the international summit. He said the development would strengthen state protocol, hospitality and facilitation arrangements for visiting officials.
The project forms part of Pakistan’s broader preparations to host the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit in Islamabad in August 2027. Authorities expect the new facility to provide improved reception arrangements for international guests.
PIA Begins Aircraft Deep-Cleaning Exercise
Separately, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched a deep-cleaning campaign across its aircraft fleet to improve cabin cleanliness and maintenance standards.
The airline has conducted special inspections of aircraft cabins in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. PIA Chief Executive Officer Adrian Hamilton-Manns said the airline would continue efforts to maintain aircraft in excellent condition and improve service quality.
Additionally, the airline recognised employees who performed exceptionally during the cleaning campaign. Management distributed shields, certificates and cash prizes to acknowledge their contributions.
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