Diplomats enjoy Jishn-e-Baran in Khohat with Shahyar Afridi

KOHAT: State Minister for Interior, Shehryar Afridi accompanied by ambassadors from fourteen countries on Wednesday attended Jishn-e-Baharan Festival (spring festival) here at Kohat Garrison.

Army officers warmly received the distinguished guests from various countries that included Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Yemen, Morocco, Maldives, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Indonesia, Azerbaijan and Iran.

The guests and Interior minister visited stalls depicting culture of the four provinces, Gilgit and Baltistan and Kashmir. Diplomats took keen interest and appreciated diversified and rich traditional culture and heritage of Pakistan. The interior minister presented traditional souvenirs to the guests.

They also laid floral wreath on the Shuhda Monument. Ambassadors expressed satisfaction over improving situation of law and order and praised role of security forces and police in this connection.

Talking to participants of the festival, interior minister said that Pakistan is a peaceful country and would not take dictation from anyone. He said that more avenues have been opened for promotion of tourism and visa policy has been relaxed for visiting foreign tourists.

He informed that development of merged tribal districts is among the top priorities of the government. He said media has acquired a very significant role in existing scenario and they should project peaceful and positive image of the country in the world and remove misconceptions. “This country is united, we believe in peace and harmony. Pakistan sacrificed enormously. We have fought biggest war on our land”, he said.

With reference to recent developments in Pak-India relations, the minister said “We believe in peace and we will promote peace. Those who have any other ideas; they must not undermine Pakistan”.