CM Shah notes that Sindh continues to produce world-class agricultural commodities, including the famous Sindhri mango
The First Lady of Pakistan Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari pictured attending the Mango Diplomacy Festival 2026—PHOTO VIA X
The First Lady of Pakistan, Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, graced the Mango Diplomacy Festival 2026 as the chief guest at a colourful ceremony held at a local hotel, while Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah attended the event and welcomed her upon her arrival.
The festival, organised by the Foreign Affairs Liaison Office (FALO), Karachi, brought together members of the diplomatic corps, consuls general, honorary consuls, government officials, business leaders and distinguished guests to celebrate Pakistan’s renowned mango varieties and promote cultural and economic diplomacy.
Upon his arrival at the venue, CM Shah was received by Director General FALO Karachi, Muhammad Irfan Soomro. The ceremony commenced with the national anthem, followed by welcome remarks by DG FALO.
Addressing the gathering, Shah said that the Mango Diplomacy Festival had quickly become an important feature of Karachi’s diplomatic calendar, fostering goodwill and strengthening ties between the diplomatic community, government institutions and the business sector.
The CM warmly welcomed Aseefa and said her presence had added great distinction to the event. He noted that through her engagements at home and abroad, she had represented Pakistan with dignity and commitment while advocating greater participation of women and youth in national development.
Mr Shah also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and appreciated Additional Foreign Secretary Muhammad Khalid Jamali and DG FALO for their efforts in promoting economic and cultural diplomacy. He said FALO Karachi had played a significant role in strengthening engagement with the diplomatic community, facilitating businesses and promoting Sindh’s image as a hub of trade, investment and international cooperation.
First Lady of Pakistan, Ms Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, graced the Mango Diplomacy Festival 2026 as the chief guest at a colourful ceremony held at a local hotel, while Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah attended the event and welcomed the First Lady upon her arrival. pic.twitter.com/kzAjVcIC07
— Sindh Chief Minister House (@SindhCMHouse) July 30, 2026
Highlighting Sindh’s agricultural strengths, Shah said the province’s fertile lands had sustained civilisations for centuries and continued to produce world-class agricultural commodities. He said Pakistan was among the leading mango-producing countries and Sindh was proud to cultivate internationally acclaimed varieties, particularly the famous Sindhri mango, known worldwide for its sweetness and rich flavour.
READ: ‘Pakistani mangoes can combat trade deficit’
He further emphasised that agriculture and trade were closely linked and stressed the need to promote Pakistan’s agricultural products in international markets as part of an export-led growth strategy. He noted that cultural events such as the Mango Diplomacy Festival and the Diplomatic Bazaar helped strengthen people-to-people connections and showcased the rich heritage of Sindh and Pakistan.
The CM also highlighted that the establishment of the Foreign Affairs Liaison Office Karachi was part of the reforms introduced by Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari during his tenure as foreign minister, enabling stronger engagement between the diplomatic community, provincial government, business sector and citizens.
As the chief guest, Aseefa distributed commemorative shields among participants and guests in recognition of their contributions. She also cut a ceremonial cake to mark the success of the Mango Diplomacy Festival 2026.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by General Manager Karachi Marriott Hotel, Raza Abbas, who appreciated the participation of the diplomatic community and all stakeholders for making the festival a success.
