PFOWA event unites cultures to support philanthropy

Islamabad:Diplomatic families came together for a special event hosted by the Pakistan Foreign Office Women’s Association here on Sunday, celebrating cultural diversity through lively stalls showcasing the unique traditions of their countries.

As the name and theme "Joining Hands, Joining Hearts" imply, the Annual Charity Bazaar also had a philanthropic focus, with the proceeds dedicated to supporting low-income staff members of the Foreign Office. The event featured a diverse range of food, crafts, and unique items from around the world, along with cultural performances by children and artists from various nations.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who inaugurated the event, underscored the pivotal role of cultural diplomacy in fostering Pakistan’s stronger ties with other nations. He emphasised the crucial role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening relationships among countries. The minister also pointed out the event's focus on social upliftment and stressed the need for collective efforts to support the welfare of marginalised communities.

Further stressing the significance of the event, he highlighted how the charity bazaar served as a platform to deepen global understanding of Pakistan’s rich social, cultural, and economic heritage. Dar praised the theme “Joining Hands, Joining Hearts” as a powerful symbol of unity and compassion, noting that such initiatives are vital for bridging cultural gaps and bringing people together. He said that the vibrant event offered a unique opportunity to residents to immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of different countries through food, crafts, and art, while supporting PFOWA’s charitable work.

The minister called the bazaar a celebration of global unity, saying it is a “captivating mix of cultures, fostering harmony and camaraderie among nations.” He appreciated the diplomatic community and other participants for their enthusiastic involvement, praising the impressive displays that showcased each country’s culture. “It’s inspiring to see such a rich variety of food, handicrafts, and unique items, creating an unforgettable experience for all,” he said.

Dar appreciated PFO­WA’s dedicated efforts to foster connections and strengthen ties within the community through exhibitions, cultural programmes, and social gathering s, which, he said, play a vital role in bringing people together, promoting mutual understanding, and building bridges across diverse cultural and social groups.