10th edition of Islamabad Literature Festival kicks off at F-9 Park
The 10th edition of the Islamabad Literature Festival (ILF) organized by the Oxford University Press (OUP) opened to an enthusiastic crowd at the Gandhara Citizens Club, F-9 Park here Friday.
The theme of the three-day event (Nov 8-10, 2024) is ‘Sustainability: Words Change Mindsets,’ which prompted on the inaugural day persuasive discourses and high voltage debates.
Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, British High Commissioner (BHC) Jane Marriott, Pakistan’s former envoy to US & UK, DrMaleehaLodhi, poet and scriptwriter ZehraNigah, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy, Natalie Baker were among the keynote speakers on the first day.
MD OUP, ArshadSaeed Husain welcomed the guests stating that the ILF has become a vital platform for intellectual growth and literary exploration in the beautiful capital of Pakistan.
The inaugural session concluded with an enthralling performance, titled ‘Jaag,’ by SamiyaMumtaz and Adnan Jahangir. Three sessions exploring the journey to economic growth and Urdu and Pushto literature followed.
Earlier, Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb in conversation with Vaqar Ahmed on ‘Economic Stabilization and the Journey to Growth,’ discussed Pakistan’s investment climate, stating that the figures were visible to all.
“Philanthropy is a valuable resource, but the country needs taxes to sustain long-term growth. Energy costs are moving towards affordability, but further structural reforms are necessary. State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) must undergo reform and should be privatized. The private sector must take the lead, and the dependency on the government must be reduced to allow for more efficient and effective management.”
BHC, Jane Marriott while exploring sustainability and the persuasive potential of literature being a key driver for a better world highlighted that the UK was focused on both climate and educational emergencies in Pakistan and hoped to bring a substantial change for the future generations.
It is an obligation on all of us – even those with a modicum of power – to bring a shift. Words can change mindsets, but actions are needed, she said.
Natalie Baker, sharing her excitement at such a large gathering of book lovers and readers said “I have been here only three months, but I would encourage everyone to learn more about the absolutely wonderful culture, language and history of Pakistan.”
MaleehaLodhi stated “Utilization of the undervalued soft power is needed for navigating the terrain of global environment today. Sans agility we risk being marginalized, and therefore we must work with the technology in the increasing digital world and utilize the outreach of social media to maintain a positive image.”
