KARACHI: ‘Emerging Pakistan’-a progressive initiative to portray a positive image of the country and promote its culture internally and globally- was launched today by Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at Mohatta Palace.
The initiative aimed to showcase the best of Pakistan’s arts, crafts, fashion, culture and music. It also shed light on diverse thriving sectors in Pakistan, all of which contribute to Pakistan as an emerging force on the global stage.
Speaking at the launch event, the prime minister said, “It is a moment of immense pride for me to announce Emerging Pakistan, a timely initiative to position Pakistan at its rightful place amongst the comity of nations. Pakistan is a land of vast potential and countless opportunities; of breathtaking landscapes and hospitable people; of rich traditions and unmatched resilience. We are heading out of our challenges stronger and heading towards a bright future. Soon, we shall be the region’s corridor for trade, energy, progress and prosperity. I would like you to join me in sharing this initiative with the rest of the world.”
The vision behind ‘Emerging Pakistan’ is to highlight booming sectors of Pakistan’s fast-growing economy. The sectors in focus for this platform include those that have received the largest amounts of foreign direct investment including power, construction, oil & gas, and transport; in addition to the finance & business sector along with Pakistan’s arts & crafts and exports [primarily textiles, rice, fruits, vegetables, leather and sports goods]. Furthermore, achievements in matters such as women empowerment and philanthropy will also be highlighted through the platform.
Speaking at the event, Commerce Minister Muhammad Pervaiz Malik said, “Pakistan is now ready to chart a new path of progress; a path of peace and prosperity. ‘Emerging Pakistan’ narrates the story of a youthful and vibrant Pakistan; full of hope and passion; with abundant resources and opportunities; open to new ideas and ventures.”
The official launch of the platform was complemented by the Expo Pakistan 2017, being held from November 9-12.
Commerce Ministry Secretary Mohammad Younus Dagha said “Emerging Pakistan is a precursor to the 10th edition of Expo Pakistan being organised by Ministry of Commerce & Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), where over 900 buyers from 85 countries are visiting Pakistan to meet with their business counterparts and negotiate business on competitive basis. Pakistan started the tradition of holding the Expo Pakistan back in 2005 with a view to bring buyers to Pakistan instead of simply helping exporters to display their products abroad. The Ministry of Commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan continues with their resolve and commitment to organize the show. As a result, the Expo Pakistan has now become a flagship trade event of the country, and is now part of the global trade calendar. We hope to achieve greater success this year, especially with our launch event showcasing the best Pakistan has to offer.”
Others who attended the event included: Defence Minister Khurram Dastgir, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Governor Muhammad Zubair, State Bank of Pakistan Governor Tariq Bajwa, Commerce Ministry Secretary Mohammad Younus Dagha, other cabinet ministers and dignitaries from over 70 countries.
The ‘Emerging Pakistan’ launch event consisted of an infomercial screening; highlighting industry, tourism and culture along with picturesque landscapes and landmarks of Pakistan. This was followed by fashion presentations by two leading names of Pakistan’s fashion industry Nomi Ansari and Faiza Samee, musical performances by iconic musicians and former producers of Coke Studio Strings and Coke Studio sensation Momina Mustehsan.
The jewellery for the fashion presentation was by Sherezad Jewellery. The official hair and makeup partner for the show was Nabila-N-Pro. The event was designed and produced by Mustang Productions, with digital branding and web management by ECOM and logo design by Carnelian. In its efforts to promote the progressive side of Pakistan to a wider audience, ‘Emerging Pakistan’ aims to extend its reach globally by taking the platform to different countries in the near future, the organisers of the event said.
Published in Daily Times, November 11th 2017.
