Guests entertained with local cuisine of Lahore
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Saturday hosted a luncheon meeting in the historic Lahore Fort with the defence attachés of 16 countries.
The Defence Attaches of the United States, Russia, Germany, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nigeria, Bulgaria, Rwanda, Tajikistan and the Philippines participated in the luncheon.
The chief minister personally welcomed them, their families and all other guests on the premises of the historic royal palace of Lahore Fort, and expressed affection for the children.
She directed the authorities concerned to show round all the guests the historical places of the Lahore Fort. The foreign ambassadors and their families rode colorful rickshaws of the Lahore Fort.
They visited the fort, observed and appreciated the historical and world’s largest picture wall of the fort. They were entertained with the traditional local cuisine of Lahore. The guests and children also took selfies with the chief minister.
Maryam Nawaz said that Lahore is not only the heart of Punjab, but also the cultural and historical soul of Pakistan, adding that the history, culture and architecture of Lahore are manifestation of our great cultural heritage.
She highlighted that the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort and Shalamar Garden are not just buildings, but reflections of our glorious past. She added the city of Lahore is a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation, which is constantly on the path of development. The food and hospitality of Lahoris are exemplary all over the world, she remarked.
Maryam Nawaz stated that Lahore has always been a center for intellectuals, poets, and artists, and it holds the distinction of being the home and burial place of the Poet of the East.
She extended a warm welcome to all the foreign guests on behalf of the people of Lahore.
She said that the visit would help strengthen the guests’ commitment and relations with Pakistan, and she was confident that they would return to their homelands as ambassadors of the country. Maryam also hoped that the visit of the defense attaches from friendly nations would mark the beginning of a new chapter in mutual relations and cooperation.
Lahore Walled City Authority Director General Kamran Lashari explained the historical importance of the Royal Fort. The foreign guests expressed interest in the historical and archaeological remains of the Fort.
Iraq’s defence attaché Colonel Ahmed invited the chief minister to visit Iraq. She was also presented with a souvenir by the guests.—APP
