The State Bank of Pakistan followed by seven banks in the financial hub of the city turned pink to show their support for the cause of awareness on Breast Cancer. A NGO, Pink Ribbon, is doing pink illuminations since 2012 because Pink landmarks give a wonderful visual reminder that every woman should be aware of Breast Cancer. Through the illumination of these iconic structures, we can aware millions of people across the country that will automatically save thousands of precious lives. Other than State Bank, National Bank of Pakistan, Standard Charted Bank (Pakistan) Limited, Bank Alfalah Limited, Bank AL Habib Limited, United Bank Limited, Habib Bank Limited, Habib Metropolitan Bank Limited simultaneously illuminated Pink to support the cause of Pink Ribbon. “We are pleased to illuminate the State Bank of Pakistan and all other major banks,” said Mr. Omer Aftab, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pink Ribbon. He gave a welcome speech and sensitize the attendants regarding Breast Cancer. He then requested Governor State Bank Dr. Reza Baqir to come forward and press the button to turn the Pink lights on. Governor State Bank Dr. Reza Baqir acknowledged Pink Ribbon Pakistan’s efforts in raising awareness regarding this dangerous disease. Talking to the media he said “Pakistan has the highest rate of Breast Cancer in the whole of Asia and thousands of women are dying from this disease every year. So, we have to act now to stop women dying from breast cancer”. He said “I appreciate all financial institutions that went pink to support Pink Ribbon”. The private sector should also support organisations like Pink Ribbon through their Corporate Social Responsibility programs. Omer Aftab thanked State Bank for showing concern for over 10 million Pakistani women who are vulnerable to Breast Cancer. He said the mission of Pink Ribbon is to eradicate Breast Cancer from Pakistan and reduce the resultant female mortality by creating the utmost awareness and providing healthcare facilities to the people. To achieve that goal Pink Ribbon is building Pakistan’s First Dedicated Breast Cancer Hospital and planning to construct more in the future.
