Pakistan Embassy in Washington hosts annual Mango Festival

The Embassy of Pakistan in Washington hosted its annual Mango Festival, a flagship cultural event that drew hundreds of Americans, members of the US administration, lawmakers and their staffers, diplomats, the think tank community, and the Pakistani-American community.

According to a press release issued on Friday by the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, guests experienced Pakistani culture and cuisine, with the aroma of ripe mangoes featured as a central part of the celebration.

The event featured Pakistani mango varieties including Chaunsa, Anwar Ratol and Sindhri. The embassy said the mangoes were served in creative forms, condiments and drinks, alongside cultural performances, traditional music and displays of Pakistan’s heritage, it added.

Congressman Ryan Zinke of Montana, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and former US Navy SEAL, addressed the gathering, the embassy said.

“The relationship between the United States government and Pakistan, in my opinion, has never been better, ever,” Congressman Zinke said.

“Our relationship as countries, as people, I don't think has ever been better,” Representative Zinke said.

Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, welcoming guests to the annual event, described Pakistani mangoes as the “fruit of passion that symbolises deepening ties”, according to the press release.

“Pakistani mango,” the ambassador said, “is unmatched. It stands out in terms of taste by far”.

“Like an undeniable demonstration of our defence and diplomatic capabilities, the taste of our mangoes is also a testament to our agricultural tradition and prowess,” the ambassador said.

“Let us today celebrate the best of Pakistan’s taste... the taste of friendship that is deepening between our two countries,” the ambassador said.

The ambassador also invited guests to experience Pakistani cultural performances and the “Dhol” drum outside, it added.

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The statement further added that a special video was played during the event featuring a cultural fusion project that reimagines the United States National Anthem in traditional Pakistani musical styles.

"The project was produced as a tribute from the Pakistani-American community; it blends American patriotism with the rich melodic heritage of Pakistan to mark two major milestones, the 250th anniversary of American independence and 79 years of US-Pakistan diplomatic friendship," the statement added.

The embassy said, "the Mango Festival underscores people-to-people bonds and the growing economic and strategic partnership between Pakistan and the United States". It added that attendees left with memories of the flavours, aromas and friendship associated with the annual celebration.