Norwegian envoy visits Alhamra

LAHORE:

Norwegian Ambassador-designate to Pakistan, Per Albert Ilsaas, visited the Lahore Arts Council (LAC) at Alhamra on Friday and emphasised people-to-people contact.

The envoy was warmly welcomed by LAC Executive Director Farhat Jabeen, with both parties agreeing on strengthening bilateral relations in the field of art and literature. They agreed to explore opportunities in art, literature and other cultural fronts.

The ambassador-designate said diplomatic relations between Norway and Pakistan spanned decades, adding, "I believe both countries are trying their best to strengthen the bilateral relationship". He expressed his appreciation for the hard work of the Alhamra Arts Council.

Executive Director Jabeen and Director Art Zulfiqar Ali Zulfi briefed the ambassador-designate about the Alhamra Art Gallery, Academy of Performing Arts, Adbi Bethak and other cultural activities at the arts council.

Farhat Jabeen said that it was the LAC’s key objective promote the culture and traditions of Pakistan across the world and to reiterate that Pakistan is the great place to visit. Jabeen also recognised the Norwegian embassy's services in Pakistan for promoting art and culture.

She said, "we give our best to meet the expectation of people from Alhamra, as this is one of the mightiest platforms in Pakistan to ensure inequitable excellence in the domains of cultural legacy and performing arts.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 20^th, 2022.