Pakistan Week in Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park is showcasing the richness of Pakistani culture through a vibrant lineup of music, art, and culinary experiences, fostering closer ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
A delegation of Pakistani journalists attending the event shared that this celebration of heritage includes traditional music and dance performances, culinary highlights featuring iconic Pakistani dishes, art exhibitions, and fashion shows displaying traditional attire like shalwar kameez.
The event also incorporates film screenings, poetry recitals, and craft stalls, providing a comprehensive view of Pakistan’s cultural landscape for both expatriates and Saudi nationals.
In an exclusive conversation with APP, senior journalist and news analyst Shaukat Paracha noted that Pakistan Week serves as a meaningful platform to deepen cultural ties by highlighting shared values, traditions, and customs. This connection, he emphasized, promotes mutual respect and understanding between the two communities.
Paracha further explained that this cultural exchange not only allows Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia to reconnect with their roots but also offers Saudi citizens an authentic experience of Pakistani culture. These initiatives build a strong foundation for people-to-people relationships, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals to embrace diversity and enhance harmony among the Kingdom’s multicultural residents.
Tariq Chaudhry, another senior journalist, added that the festivities at Suwaidi Park include live performances by Pakistani artists, traditional folk dances like bhangra, and an array of Pakistani street food stalls. The park also features interactive art installations, cultural parades, and storytelling sessions on Pakistani folklore. With family-friendly activities like face painting, henna, and games inspired by Pakistani culture, the event offers an inclusive celebration for all ages.
Senior journalist Sohail Bhatti highlighted the positive response from the Pakistani community, many of whom felt a renewed sense of pride in their heritage. He noted that high attendance and enthusiastic participation in various activities—from culinary showcases to musical performances—demonstrated the community’s appreciation for this public celebration of Pakistani culture in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that the Saudi government’s recognition and support for these events strengthen the community’s sense of belonging within the Kingdom.
An official from the Saudi Ministry of Media shared that the ministry plays a critical role in organizing and promoting cultural exchange events like Pakistan Week. Collaborating with foreign embassies and community organizations, the ministry ensures these events align with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of fostering diversity and inclusivity. Through resources and media coverage, the ministry enhances the visibility and reach of these celebrations, inviting international media to capture the essence of cultural openness and the valuable contributions of expatriate communities.
By supporting initiatives like Pakistan Week, the ministry underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural openness and recognizes the enriching impact of expatriate communities on the Kingdom’s social fabric.
