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Monday December 23, 2024

Saudi Arabia’s cultural riches shine

By APP
November 11, 2024
Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Hassan Nasir Jamy, visit on the Saudi Arabia Embassy stall during the opening ceremony of the Annual Ten-Day Folk Festival Lok Mela at Lok Virsa in the federal capital. —  APP/File
Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Hassan Nasir Jamy, visit on the Saudi Arabia Embassy stall during the opening ceremony of the Annual Ten-Day Folk Festival Lok Mela at Lok Virsa in the federal capital. —  APP/File

Islamabad:The annual Lok Mela at Lok Virsa is underway, showcasing diverse cultural heritages from across Pakistan and beyond.

This year, the festival includes a vibrant stall from Saudi Arabia, offering visitors a rich experience of Saudi Arabian culture through traditional tastes, attire, and hospitality. Organized by the Saudi Embassy, the stall is attracting large crowds with its authentic representation of the Kingdom’s traditions.

The Saudi stall, adorned with intricate decor and cultural elements, has become a major highlight of the ten-day festival. Visitors are relishing the taste of premium Saudi dates, known for their unique texture and natural sweetness, and savouring the aroma of Arabian gahwa (coffee). The traditional Saudi hospitality, warm and welcoming, is evident as the stall attendants serve these delicacies with care, drawing numerous guests intrigued by the offerings.

In a conversation with this agency, Saudi Press Attaché Dr. Naif Al-Otaibi shared his pride in representing Saudi culture at this international festival. “Saudi Arabia is rich in tradition, history, and culture. Lok Mela is an exceptional platform to share our heritage with the people of Pakistan, highlighting the close ties between our nations,” he added. Dr. Al-Otaibi emphasized the historical and cultural bonds between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which have strengthened over decades of diplomatic, economic, and social exchanges. Saudi Labour Attaché, Majed Baker also in attendance, highlighted the significance of such events in enhancing cross-cultural understanding.