Pakistan Welcomes Polish Cyclist for Pakistan–Poland Friendship Cycle Expedition 2026
ISLAMABAD, July 24, 2026: Pakistan officially welcomed renowned Polish adventure cyclist Sławomir Jan Strzelczyk as the Pakistan–Poland Friendship Cycle Expedition 2026 commenced with a ceremony hosted by the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) under the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC).
The welcome ceremony, held at the Pakistan Secretariat in Islamabad, brought together senior government officials, representatives of the Embassy of Poland, tourism stakeholders, cycling organizations, and media to celebrate a unique initiative aimed at strengthening the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Poland through adventure tourism.
Secretary IPC Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani said the government remains committed to promoting Pakistan as a safe and attractive destination for international tourism and adventure sports. He noted that initiatives like the cycling expedition help strengthen people-to-people connections while showcasing Pakistan’s positive image globally.
Polish Ambassador to Pakistan Maciej Pisarski praised the warm hospitality extended by the Government of Pakistan and PTDC, describing the expedition as a symbol of friendship, cultural understanding, and international cooperation. He expressed confidence that the cyclist’s journey would introduce Pakistan’s breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and renowned hospitality to audiences in Poland and beyond.
PTDC Managing Director Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana highlighted the corporation’s efforts to promote adventure tourism, cycling tourism, and sustainable travel, saying the expedition reflects Pakistan’s growing reputation as a destination for outdoor exploration.
Focal Person to the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme on Tourism and Hospitality Muhammad Rauf Raja emphasized the programme’s support for tourism development, youth engagement, and emerging sectors such as medical tourism. He said such collaborative initiatives create new opportunities for young people while strengthening Pakistan’s tourism ecosystem.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sławomir Jan Strzelczyk thanked the Government of Pakistan and PTDC for their warm welcome. He expressed excitement about cycling through Pakistan’s diverse landscapes, meeting local communities, and promoting friendship, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism.
During the event, expedition coordinator Mohammad Saleh presented his book, The Lore of Gilgit-Baltistan, to the chief guest as a symbol of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
PTDC also unveiled the expedition route, covering approximately 1,390 kilometers from Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass via the iconic Karakoram Highway. The cyclist will travel through Taxila, Abbottabad, Besham, Chilas, Gilgit, Hunza, Gulmit, Passu, and Sost before reaching Khunjerab National Park, showcasing Pakistan’s stunning mountain scenery and cultural diversity.
The expedition will officially begin on July 25 from the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, where members of the Pakistan Cycling Federation will accompany Strzelczyk on a symbolic ride before he continues toward Abbottabad.
PTDC said the Pakistan–Poland Friendship Cycle Expedition 2026 reflects its commitment to sustainable tourism, adventure sports, and tourism diplomacy while promoting Pakistan’s world-renowned mountain landscapes and hospitality to an international audience.