By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI/ISLAMABAD: Thousands of people, gathered at the Jinnah Convention Center Islamabad on Saturday to participate in “EuroVillage,” a family-focused festival organized by the European Union and its Member States.
This year’s celebration centered on the theme of co-creating a sustainable future, entitled “Stronger Together – Sustainable Forever.” The event showcased the 60+ years strong connection between the EU and Pakistan, highlighting the collaborative partnership in development, trade and investment, culture, education, environment and a wide array of other areas.
In her welcome remarks, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, H.E. Dr. Riina Kionka, noted: “EuroVillage is a special event for us; we cherish the people-to-people connections it offers. This year, we want you to experience our journey of co-creating a sustainable future. Europe has the ambition to be the first climate neutral continent, but also wants to support its partners towards the green transition. Pakistan is one of the countries at the greatest risk from climate change. The EU is working with Pakistan to help address challenges and create a sustainable future for all.”
The fifth edition of EuroVillage hosted the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi to experience European sustainability and enjoy an afternoon of culture, music, and food. The festival featured features interactive information displays by the EU and Member States, offering games, quizzes, food and various activities, providing visitors with an afternoon of learning, interaction, and entertainment. The event featured live performances by Pakistani artists including Farhan Saeed and Quratulain Balouch.
As a symbol of this partnership, an EU-Pakistan Dosti truck was displayed at the event blending the well-known Pakistani truck art with European symbols and designs.
Euro Village was co-organised by the diplomatic missions of the European Union and of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Spain.
