Festival showcases mangoes as tool of economic, cultural diplomacy
KARACHI: Pakistan’s premium mangoes were showcased as an instrument of economic and cultural diplomacy at the Mango Diplomacy Festival, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), in collaboration with the Sindh government, the All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetables Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA) and Marriott Karachi.
The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, ambassadors, senior government officials, exporters, representatives of the business community and stakeholders from Pakistan’s agriculture and horticulture sectors to promote Pakistan’s world-renowned mangoes and strengthen international partnerships through cultural engagement.
According to a press release, the ceremony was attended by First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari as the chief guest and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
Speaking on the occasion, the CM 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.
Diplomatic corps, govt officials and stakeholders gather to promote country’s premium mangoes and deepen international partnerships
“Pakistan produces some of the finest mango varieties in the world, including Sindhri, Chaunsa, Anwar Ratol, Langra and Dusehri. Their unmatched quality, taste and fragrance have earned international recognition, making them one of Pakistan’s most valuable horticultural exports and an effective ambassador of our country’s soft image,” he said.
He said, “Agriculture is not merely an economic activity; it is the foundation of our civilisation, our culture, and the livelihood of millions of hardworking farmers”.
Emphasising the provincial government’s commitment to agriculture, he remarked, “The Government of Sindh will continue supporting farmers to ensure that Pakistani agricultural products remain competitive in international markets.”
The chief minister warmly welcomed First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari 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.
The first lady distributed commemorative shields among distinguished participants in recognition of their contributions to promoting Pakistan’s agricultural exports and international cooperation.
Earlier, welcoming the guests, Director General of the Foreign Affairs Liaison Office Karachi Muhammad Irfan Soomro said: “The Mango Diplomacy Fest is a celebration of Pakistan’s agricultural excellence and an important manifestation of our economic and cultural diplomacy.
“Pakistan’s mangoes are globally renowned for their exceptional quality, flavour, and diversity, and today we proudly present this national treasure before members of the diplomatic corps and our international partners. Such events strengthen people-to-people contacts, create new trade opportunities, and project a positive image of Pakistan across the world”, he added.
He further remarked, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains committed to facilitating stronger linkages between Pakistan’s diplomatic missions, the business community, exporters and international stakeholders to expand market access for Pakistani products and further deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation.”
The event highlighted the importance of strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural exports, improving global market access, and leveraging cultural diplomacy to project a positive image of the country.
The festival reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to utilising economic and cultural diplomacy as effective tools for strengthening international friendships, expanding agricultural exports and showcasing the country’s rich agricultural heritage to the global community.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Raza Abbas, General Manager, Marriott Karachi, followed by a ceremonial cake-cutting to mark the success of the Mango Diplomacy Fest.
Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026
