Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD, July 13: Pakistan’s internationally acclaimed mangoes took centre stage at a colorful Mango Festival hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with Serena Hotels and the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Association (PFVA), bringing together diplomats, government officials, exporters and business leaders to celebrate one of the country’s most prized agricultural products and promote its global export potential.
Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch, the chief guest, inaugurated the festival by cutting a ceremonial cake alongside Serena Hotels Chief Executive Officer Aziz Boolani, Aslam Pakhali Chairman PFVA and PFVA Senior Vice Chairman Chaudhry Shoaib Ahmed. A large number of heads of diplomatic missions based in Islamabad attended the event, underscoring growing international interest in Pakistan’s premium fruit exports.
Addressing the gathering, the Foreign Secretary said the Mango Festival was far more than a celebration of Pakistan’s “king of fruits”
Mangoes are a symbol of Pakistan’s vibrant culture, rich cuisine and thriving commerce. They reflect the richness of our soil, the dedication of our farmers and the spirit of our people,” she said.
She added that Pakistani mangoes have earned worldwide recognition because of the collective efforts of growers, exporters, agricultural scientists and trade partners, who have transformed the fruit into a globally recognized brand.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi also attended the festival and toured the exhibition stalls featuring a wide variety of premium mangoes from different parts of the country. He appreciated the quality of the produce and the contribution of the horticulture sector to Pakistan’s economy and exports.
More than 250 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, business executives, representatives of the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Association and officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the event.
Visitors enjoy variety of mango-based cuisines, desserts and beverages specially prepared by Serena Hotels’ culinary team, highlighting the versatility of Pakistan’s most celebrated summer fruit.
The festival served as a platform to showcase the quality, diversity and export potential of Pakistani mangoes while strengthening commercial links with international partners. Participants expressed optimism that continued promotional initiatives would help expand Pakistan’s share in global fruit markets and further enhance the country’s image through agricultural and culinary diplomacy.
