Naveed Miraj and Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: The Jinnah Convention Center in Islamabad was abuzz with excitement on Saturday as thousands of individuals converged to partake in the vibrant festivities of “Euro Village,” a heartwarming celebration organized by the European Union (EU) and its Member States.
This year’s Euro Village, themed “Stronger Together – Sustainable Forever,” served as a testament to the enduring bond between the EU and Pakistan, spanning over 60 years of collaborative endeavors across diverse sectors including development, trade, culture, education, and environmental sustainability.
In her opening address, Her Excellency Dr. Riina Kionka, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, emphasized the significance of Euro Village as a platform for fostering people-to-people connections and advancing shared goals.
She underscored the EU’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its journey towards a sustainable future, particularly in combating the adverse effects of climate change.
The fifth edition of Euro Village treated attendees from Islamabad and Rawalpindi to an immersive experience of European culture and sustainability initiatives.
From interactive information displays showcasing EU programs to engaging activities, quizzes, and delectable European cuisines, the event offered a blend of education and entertainment for all ages.
Highlighting the cultural exchange aspect, Pakistani artists, including Farhan Saeed and Quratulain Balouch, graced the stage with captivating performances, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and camaraderie.
A striking symbol of the EU-Pakistan friendship, the EU-Pakistan Dosti truck adorned the venue, merging iconic Pakistani truck art with European motifs, symbolizing the harmonious blend of traditions and values shared between the two regions.
Euro Village was a collaborative effort, co-organized by the diplomatic missions of several EU Member States, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and others. This collective endeavor underscored the unity and solidarity among EU nations in fostering stronger ties with Pakistan and promoting sustainable development goals on a global scale.
