British diplomats ski down Karakoram as part of int'l skiing event

Fantastice to see such scenary in a valley associated with destruction by the Pakistani Taliban: Dr Chrisian Turner

MALAM JABBA: The British High Commission took part in the Karakorum International Alpine Ski Cup 2020 held at the Malam Jabba resort in Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

About 8,500 feet above the sea level, Malam Jabba is among the few skiing resorts in the country. Every year millions of tourists flock to the snowy peaks for recreation.

This year's ski event was attended by President Arif Alvi and other dignitaries.

British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner at the Malam Jabba resort. PHOTO: EXPRESS

British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner led the team that competed alongside a host of international skiers from countries including Canada, Greece, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Timor Leste and Turkey.

More than 60 local skiers also participated in the tournament.

Referring to Pakistan as a ‘wonderful country’, the commissioner appreciated the positive change in northwestern region, despite the destruction caused by the Taliban.

“In a valley and resort associated with destruction by the Pakistani Taliban,” he said. “It is fantastic to see the breathtaking scenery and how Pakistan is changing for the better.”

Turner congratulated the Pakistan Air Force and the Winter Sports Federation Pakistan for organising an “excellent tournament”.

“I’ve been told I’m the first British High Commissioner to visit the resort in 15 years or so, and I want to continue travelling all around Pakistan as I get to know this wonderful country.”

Since arriving in Pakistan at the end of last year, Turner has already visited Lahore and Karachi twice as part of his ambition to see as much of the country as possible during his tenure.

Skiing in the Swat valley - honoured to lead 🇬🇧 team to 2020 Karakoram Alpine Ski Cup at #MalamJabba with @PresOfPakistan @ArifAlvi @OfficialDGISPR #GettingToKnow🇵🇰 cc @sayedzbukhari @KPGovernment pic.twitter.com/X4OxWS5j37

— Christian Turner (@CTurnerFCDO) February 8, 2020