MINGORA: Federal Minister for Commerce Khurram Dastgir Khan said that government wanted to promote local products and culture heritage in Swat for its economic growth and stability.

He was addressing inaugural ceremony of the trade exhibition titled “Rediscovering Swat” here on Wednesday. The exhibition was organised by ministry of commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by MNA Siraj Mohammad Khan, MNA Mussarat Ahmadzeb, Malakand GOC Maj-Gen Asif Ghafoor, Trade Development Authority chief executive SM Munir, businessmen from across the country and diplomats of more than 20 countries.

The main objective of the event, according to the organisers, was to bring all the traders and foreign diplomats to Swat, provide an opportunity to local entrepreneurs to promote their products people and rediscover the scenic valley as a home of peace.

Swati woodwork, kadiwork, woven leather handicraft, woolen shawls, embroidery, minerals and gems, jewellery, marble, wild herbs, fresh and dry fruit, morale mushroom and seafood like the rare Rainbow trout fish were displayed at stalls.

Over 20 foreign diplomats attend trade exhibition

Mr Dastgir said that holding the exhibition in Swat was a message of peace and prosperity of the country. “The presence of so many dignitaries, diplomats and businessmen gives a message that Pakistan is peaceful and has come out of the dark period of insurgency,” he added.

The minister said that Swat was rich in culture, art, history, literature, music, architecture and natural beauty. “This beautiful valley has offered, for hundreds of years, matchless hospitality to its visitors and this hospitality is embedded in the local culture and tradition,” he added.

He said that the exhibition would be held every year in Swat. He also promised to allocate funds for setting up an office for business community.

Speaking on the occasion, S.M. Munir said that the event was organised to celebrate the revival of one of the country’s most beautiful and treasured region.

MNA Mussarat Ahmadzeb said that TDAP should allocate funds for strengthening business community. “I also request the minister for commerce to allocate funds to acquire land and construct building for the office of business community in Swat,” she said.

Maj-Gen Asif Ghafoor said in his address that Swat was the valley of peace and a heaven on earth that was engulfed by terrorism and militancy. He said that the valley was cleared of militants in a record time of three months through a military operation with the backing of political leadership and local population.

Foreign dignitaries and diplomats visited various stalls and appreciated the quality and uniqueness of the local products.

“For us Swat means a lot. I am very excited to be here. I love the wonderful handicrafts here. Here I can see a large variety of hand made products including wonderful shawls, Swati caps, jewellery, embroidery and woodcarving,” Austrian Ambassador Brigitta Blaha told Dawn.

Published in Dawn November 17th, 2016