Pakistan, April 22 -- There are diplomatic visits, and then there are moments when a city-through intention, imagination, and sheer cultural confidence-positions itself for something far greater. Lahore's recent hosting of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) delegation was exactly that: not a routine stop on a multilateral calendar, but a bold pitch by Punjab's government to claim its place as a regional tourism and innovation hub.

For decades, Lahore has been known for its poetry, gardens, and Mughal splendour. But last week, as ECO Permanent Representatives strolled through the cobbled lanes of the Walled City, toured the awe-striking Badshahi Mosque, marvelled at the architectural gems of Shalamar Gardens and danced to the dru...