SCO Names Lahore Tourism and Cultural Capital

Lahore in Pakistan was designated as the Tourism and Cultural Capital for the 2026–27 term by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The decision was finalised at the 26th meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and the chairmanship of the SCO was transferred to Pakistan for the 2026–2027 period.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a Eurasian intergovernmental grouping founded in 2001. Its members include China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran, while Belarus joined as a member in 2024.

Lahore as a Cultural Centre

Lahore is the capital of Punjab province in Pakistan and is known for Mughal-era monuments, Sufi shrines, and colonial architecture. The city includes the Lahore Fort, Shalimar Gardens, Badshahi Mosque, and the Walled City, which are major heritage sites in South Asia.

SCO Chairmanship and Cultural Theme

Pakistan adopted the theme “Turning Vision into Action: Connectivity, Innovation and Shared Prosperity” for its SCO chairmanship. A year-long itinerary of cultural programmes and events involving SCO member states has been planned to present Lahore’s heritage and to support tourism and cultural exchange.

Important Facts for Exams

• The SCO Council of Heads of State is the highest decision-making body of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
• Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan and has hosted major SCO meetings.
• Lahore is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in South Asia.
• The Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Pakistan.

Tourism and Cultural Capital

The designation of Tourism and Cultural Capital is used by the SCO to promote heritage, tourism, and cultural interaction among member states. Lahore’s recognition for 2026–27 is linked with SCO-wide cultural programming and official events during Pakistan’s chairmanship.