Staff Reporter
Peshawar:
A dignified and memorable Iftar dinner was hosted at the PC Hotel, Malam Jabba, set amid the snow-capped peaks and serene atmosphere of the Swat Valley. The event was organized by prominent lawyer Sardar Waqar Shahzad Advocate. The special gathering was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to Pakistan, Wolfgang Oliver Kutschera, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Pham Anh Tuan, and Commissioner Malakand Division Masood Ahmed as chief guests. Members of the diplomatic corps, families, local dignitaries, social and business personalities, and community elders were also present in large numbers.
The atmosphere of the event was both graceful and cordial, with representatives of different cultures sharing the same table and presenting a practical example of intercultural harmony. In his welcome address, Sardar Waqar Shahzad Advocate said that Swat has historically been a crossroads of civilizations, religions, and cultures along the Silk Road, and the presence of distinguished ambassadors from Austria and Vietnam was a renewal of that historic tradition connecting East and West.
He described it as a pleasant coincidence that the holy month of Ramadan and the Vietnamese New Year “Tet” coincided this year, reflecting shared values of renewal, hope, and family bonds. He added that such occasions help reduce distances between nations and bring hearts closer together.
Referring to the recent heavy snowfall in Malam Jabba, Sardar Waqar Shahzad said the season provides an excellent opportunity to introduce Swat as a global center for winter tourism and snow sports. He highlighted Austria’s extensive experience in skiing and Vietnam’s emerging tourism sector, urging enhanced cooperation among the three countries in tourism, investment, and technical collaboration. He also proposed educational scholarships, student exchanges, visits by legal and business delegations, and stronger people-to-people contacts.
Ambassador of Vietnam Pham Anh Tuan appreciated the historic Buddhist heritage of Swat and the efforts for its preservation, stating that this legacy is a shared asset not only of Pakistan but of all humanity. He expressed a desire to expand cooperation in tourism, culture, and trade.
Ambassador of Austria Wolfgang Oliver Kutschera praised the scenic beauty of Malam Jabba and its ski resort, referring to the historical and technical ties between Austria and Pakistan. He expressed hope that future joint initiatives in tourism and sports would bring the two countries even closer, and said he would like to revisit Malam Jabba for skiing.
At the conclusion of the event, participants reaffirmed their commitment that such diplomatic and social engagements not only strengthen bilateral relations but also project Pakistan’s positive and peaceful image globally. The evening marked the beginning of a new chapter of friendship, cultural harmony, and mutual cooperation among Austria, Vietnam, and Pakistan.
