Islamabad (GNP): Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has said Pakistan’s Engage Africa Policy reflects its commitment to expanding and deepening political, economic and cultural relations with African countries on a sustainable basis.
Addressing the Happy Africa Day ceremony in Islamabad, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said that Pakistan views Africa as a key partner in its foreign policy and remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations across the continent.
Attaullah Tarar highlighted Pakistan’s expanding diplomatic presence in Africa and noted that cooperation spans diverse sectors, including trade, education, health, capacity building, and defense, to foster mutual growth and shared prosperity.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to deeper collaboration, he proposed establishing a joint platform to promote African culture, music, heritage, traditions, and values, and emphasized the importance of enhancing cultural exchanges. Attaullah Tarar expressed confidence that the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and African nations will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.
Rwanda High Commission in Pakistan proudly celebrated Africa Day 2026 alongside African Missions accredited in Pakistan.
The event showcased the richness and diversity of Africa through its vibrant culture, traditional cuisine, music, and heritage, fostering unity and friendship among African nations and Pakistan.
The Heads of African Missions in Pakistan and Heads of Pakistan Missions in Africa also shared their views on the occasion. Stalls exhibiting African products and art work depicting African culture were also set up by African Missions in Islamabad.
Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Pakistan, Titus M. J. Abu Basutu addressing the Africa Day celebration in Islamabad, the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps welcomed the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, diplomatic representatives, ambassadors, high commissioners, and distinguished guests.
He highlighted that Africa Day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963, which later evolved into the African Union in 2002. The occasion celebrates African unity, integration, cultural diversity, and the continent’s continued progress toward economic development and self-reliance.
He noted that Africa Day also honors the struggle against colonialism while providing an opportunity to reflect on current challenges and collective solutions for building a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous continent. Referring to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, he emphasized priorities such as sustainable development, regional integration, human capital development, environmental sustainability, good governance, peace and security, and gender equality.
Ambassador Titus further highlighted Africa’s growing global significance, citing its youthful population, expanding economy, and vast development potential. Referring to this year’s Africa Day theme on sustainable water availability and sanitation, he stressed the importance of water security, climate resilience, public health, and sustainable development as key pillars for Africa’s future.
The Dean appreciated Pakistan’s Engage Africa Policy and expressed confidence that it would further strengthen bilateral relations, trade, investment, and people-to-people contacts between Africa and Pakistan.
Also Read: Philippines Marks 128th Independence Anniversary, Seeks Closer Ties with Pakistan
Celebrating the continent’s rich cultural heritage, tourism, and hospitality, he showcased Africa’s diverse landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant traditions. Concluding his remarks, he thanked the Government of Pakistan for its continued support and cooperation with African diplomatic missions, reaffirming the enduring friendship and solidarity between Africa and Pakistan.
Speaking to Global News Pakistan, Amb. Hamid Asghar Khan described Africa as a welcoming, resource-rich continent with vast potential. While acknowledging its progress, he noted ongoing challenges such as hunger and conflict, and stressed the need for stronger multilateral cooperation and deeper South-South ties.
He highlighted Pakistan’s tourism and defence sectors as key areas for collaboration, and underscored the importance of regular political engagement, active resident missions, and enhanced cooperation at the UN. He concluded by commending ISSI’s role in promoting Pakistan-Africa relations.
At the end, the guests visited the stalls established by African Missions in Islamabad, displaying African food and other products, which were introduced by the concerned Heads of Missions.
The highlight of the evening was the array of food stalls, set up by various African embassies, offering guests a chance to indulge in authentic African cuisine. From Moroccan tagine to Egyptian koshari to Sudanese stews, the event was a culinary journey across the continent. The colors, aromas, and flavors at each stall told stories of traditions, history, and national pride.
In a unique cultural gesture, the Embassy of Ethiopia established a traditional coffee corner, introducing guests to the centuries-old Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Attendees were treated to freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, served with customary hospitality. The ritual of roasting, grinding, and brewing was performed live, and many found the aromatic experience both relaxing and enlightening.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of diplomats, academics, practitioners, students, members of the media, and African diaspora. African Dsy ceremony concluded with music, an atmosphere of warmth and unity. African diplomats expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s hospitality and the opportunity to showcase their cultures in a spirit of friendship and shared vision.
