Azerbaijan envoy highlights independence struggle

Indonesians vote at the embassy while diplomats actively participate in the plantation drive

ISLAMABAD: To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of Azerbaijan, the country’s top diplomat in Pakistan gave a lecture highlighting his country’s independence struggle and the Pakistani connection.

In a lecture delivered at the Bahria University in Islamabad, Azerbaijan Ambassador Ali Alizada provided an insight into the history of as well as the mission and goals of Azerbaijani diplomacy, and the development of the Azerbaijani statehood.

The ambassador also highlighted the restoration of independence, problems faced by Azerbaijan during the early years of his country after independence, the role of its national leader Heydar Aliyev in preserving and developing the republic along with the services of President Ilham Aliyev in elevating the country`s development.

Alizada also hailed the long-standing relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.

“Pakistan was one the first countries to recognise the independence of Azerbaijan,” he disclosed, adding, “Our countries always support each other.”

Indonesians vote at embassy

With Indonesia set to go to the polls on April 17, their embassy held an election ‘bazaar’ on its premises on Sunday where Indonesian citizens residing in Pakistan could cast their vote and partake in a traditional Indonesian food festival.

The Indonesian embassy in Islamabad also held cultural shows and performances in which the Indonesian community took an active part.

Indonesian Ambassador Iwan Amri also joined the community and visited various stalls and appreciated the work done by the Indonesian community.

Sunday was the last day of campaigning in Indonesia with massive rallies held across the country, including in the country’s capital of Jakarta by President Joko Widodo, who is standing for re-election this week.

Diplomats plant trees

In a gesture of goodwill and understanding of the ‘Green and Clean Pakistan’ campaign, diplomats from various countries visited the Yaldram shooting range in Pir Sohawa on Sunday and took take part in a plantation drive.

The foreign dignitaries planted saplings and expressed their appreciation of the green initiative of the country.

They also appreciated Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tourism policy, describing Pakistan as one of the world's best tourist spots.

The diplomats said that due to the promotion of tourism, the economy of Pakistan will be strengthened and flourish while a soft image of Pakistan will be promoted all over the world.

They assured that they will encourage tourists from their respective countries to visit Pakistan and explore its natural beauty.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 15^th, 2019.