EU celebrates Europe-Pakistan friendship

The European Union (EU) and its member states organised this year’s EuroVillage festival on a grander scale, showcasing the cultures of its member states and celebrating the bonding between Europe and Pakistan. The event took place on February 17.

This event this year carried the theme, ‘Stronger Together – Sustainable Forever’, which promoted the spirit of co-creating a sustainable future. The festival commemorated the 60+ years cooperation between the EU and Pakistan.

Some of the key areas the event highlighted was the EU and Pakistan’s collaborative partnership in development, trade and investment, culture, education, environment and a wide array of other areas.

Read: Pakistan, EU agree to deepen ties

The Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, H.E. Dr. Riina Kionka, opened the event with her welcoming remarks by saying that “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.”

This was the fifth iteration of EuroVillage. Thousands of people joined the event from Islamabad and Rawalpindi to learn about European efforts towards sustainability as well as enjoy an afternoon of culture, music, and food.

The festival featured interactive information displays by the different member states of the EU, which included offering games, quizzes, food and various activities, providing visitors with opportunities to learn, interact and connect.

The event also featured live performances by Pakistani artists including Farhan Saeed and Quratulain Balouch.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 18^th 2024.