Weekly Craft Bazaar opens in capital

Islamabad: Mayor of Islamabad and Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA), Sheikh Anser Aziz inaugurated a weekly Craft Bazaar organised by the Sports and Culture Directorate of Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) here at the Art and Craft Village.

Sports and Culture Directorate Executive Director Sanaullah Aman and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.Artists from all parts of the country including Gilgit-Baltistan are participating in the event to display their rich cultural heritage before the visitors.

Speaking on the occasion, the Islamabad Mayor said that Art and Craft Village would be revamped and made fully operational to provide recreational facilities for the residents of the federal capital. Art and Craft Village which is unique due to its natural environment and locality would be made hub of cultural, regional, traditional, recreational and entertainment activities.

Sheikh Anser Aziz said that MCI will make the Art and Craft Village fully functional and will arrange different colourful cultural events for public throughout the year.He further said that besides the upcoming 14 August celebrations, special events would be organised on the eve of national days and different festivals every year for the entertainment of the residents of twin cities.

He also said that a large number of diplomats are residing in Islamabad, adding that all possible measures would be taken to introduce rich Pakistani traditions and heritage to them for promotion of soft image of the country in the world.

He also visited different stalls and pavilions established at Art Bazaar and witnessed the artists at their handicraft work. He expressed his keen interest and asked the artists different questions about their art work.

Sports and Culture Directorate Executive Director Sanaullah Aman apprised the mayor that in line with directions, weekly Art Bazaar has been organised at the end of every week from Friday evening to Sunday evening for provision of recreational and entertainment opportunities to the public, especially the children.

He said that tourist train service for the children has also been arranged, while different bands will demonstrate their music compositions on national songs and other melodies for the amusement of the public. Sheikh Anser Aziz said that such recreational and entertainment activities should continue with consistency for the visitors in the events.