EU-Pakistan friendship celebrated

Islamabad : The Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad buzzed with excitement as thousands of people gathered on Saturday to partake in the vibrant festivities of EuroVillage. Organised by the European Union and its member states, this year's edition of EuroVillage embraced the theme of "Stronger Together – Sustainable Forever," highlighting the enduring bond between the EU and Pakistan.

In her opening address, Dr. Riina Kionka, ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, emphasised the significance of EuroVillage as a platform for fostering people-to-people connections and advancing collaborative efforts towards a sustainable future. Dr. Kionka underscored the EU's commitment to supporting Pakistan in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, emphasizing the importance of collective action in achieving environmental sustainability.

The fifth instalment of EuroVillage treated attendees to a delightful showcase of European culture, music, and cuisine, while also providing interactive information displays and engaging activities aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of sustainability initiatives. From educational games to tantalising food stalls, visitors were immersed in an afternoon of learning and entertainment.

Highlighting the cultural exchange integral to the event, Pakistani artists, including Farhan Saeed and Quratulain Balouch, graced the stage with electrifying performances, further strengthening the cultural ties between Europe and Pakistan.

A notable symbol of the enduring partnership between the EU and Pakistan was the EU-Pakistan Dosti truck, proudly displayed at the festival. Adorned with a fusion of Pakistani truck art and European motifs, the truck served as a visual representation of the harmonious blend of traditions and values shared between the two regions.

EuroVillage was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the diplomatic missions of the European Union and several EU Member States, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, and Spain.

As EuroVillage concluded, it left a lasting impression on attendees, reaffirming the unwavering commitment of the EU and Pakistan to building a sustainable future together, grounded in friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect.