MULTAN, Sept 5: The Sydney-bound Friendship Rally reached here on Monday, and the elderly but enthusiastic foreigners driving old cars were accorded a warm welcome on their arrival. Over 30 foreigners, mostly Britain nationals, had started the 27,615km and three-month long friendship drive on Aug 14 from London driving 15 old and some classical models of Mercedez, Jaguar, Chevrolet, Austin, Pontiac and Porsche with an objective to spread the message of friendship. Around 10 of these cars are pre-1970 models.

The friendship motorcade, being led by Richard Philip Dyke Price, had reached Pakistan from Iran through Taftan on Sept 3, from where it reached Quetta, then Sukkar and from there it reached here on Monday. After having an overnight stay, the rally will leave for Lahore on Tuesday morning.

The rally will enter China on Sept 13 after passing through Islamabad, Basham, Gilgit and Gulmit. It will also pass through India, Bangkok, Singapore and Portland before reaching its final destination, Sydney, Australia, on Nov 16.

Foreigners, despite facing a long journey in hot weather conditions, were happy, some jubilant at having been given a warm reception at a local hotel.

“It was the best reception I have received throughout the journey from London,” said an elated Neil Donald. He said the Pakistani authorities provided them with all facilities and their hospitality, guidance and support was remarkable.—APP