Lahore has been named the Tourism and Cultural Capital of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for 2026-27, highlighting the Pakistani city’s rich heritage and cultural importance.
The decision was announced during the 26th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the meeting as Pakistan continued its SCO presidency.
Lahore To Highlight Pakistan’s Cultural Heritage
The SCO has rotated the Tourism and Cultural Capital title among its member states since 2022. The designation aims to showcase cities that represent the cultural heritage of the country holding the organisation’s rotating presidency.
This year, Pakistan assumed the SCO presidency under the theme “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity.” Consequently, Lahore’s selection will provide Pakistan with an opportunity to promote its historical sites, traditions and tourism potential.
The decision to select Lahore was initially taken in April, when heads of tourism administrations from SCO member states met in Bishkek. The latest announcement formally confirms the city’s role for the 2026-27 period.
Lahore Joins Previous SCO Cultural Capitals
Several major cities have previously held the title. Varanasi in India served as the capital for 2022-23, followed by Almaty in Kazakhstan for 2023-24 and Qingdao in China for 2024-25.
Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan’s Cholpon-Ata held the designation for 2025-26. Lahore will now become the latest city to receive the honour as the SCO continues promoting cultural exchange among its members.
Tourism And People-To-People Links
The initiative seeks to strengthen tourism and people-to-people contacts across SCO member states. Moreover, Lahore’s designation could encourage greater international attention toward its historic landmarks, cultural attractions, cuisine and traditions.
The title is expected to support cultural cooperation while creating opportunities for visitors from SCO countries to explore Lahore’s heritage and tourism offerings.
