TAXILA: Cultural performances, traditional sports, indigenous crafts and authentic cuisine came together on Saturday at the Orange Festival in Taxila, offering diplomats a firsthand experience of Pakistan’s diverse heritage.

Over one hundred Islamabad-based diplomats from over 40 countries participated in the vibrant activities during the festival organised by Syed Ahsan Shah and Zaheer Shah in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of Diplomatic Corps and the office of the Dean of Corps of Service Attaches (COSA) at the famous Zaildar house, where Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider graced the event as the chief guest.

The Orange Festival have been hosted for foreign diplomats for the last 13 years in the ancient city of Gandhara and Buddhist civilisations.

The dance of horses on drumbeats and the traditional sports of stone lifting and the world-famous citrus Khanpuri oranges were the centre of attraction among the diplomats and their families, especially children.

The diplomats and their families lauded the festival for creating an opportunity to showcase Pakistan and Taxila’s culture. One minute of silence was observed to pay homage to the victims of suicide at Imambargah in Islamabad during Friday prayers.

Addressing the participants, Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan said that cultural diplomacy can play a decisive role in promoting the historical and rich heritage of the country at the international level.

“The participation of ambassadors and diplomats of friendly countries in the festival is a reflection of a successful foreign policy of Pakistan”, he said

Punjab governor added that cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in promoting Pakistan’s rich and historic cultural heritage at the global level. Referring to the strong participation of foreign ambassadors and their families, the governor said their presence projects a positive image of Pakistan globally and contributes to the promotion of tourism.

Talking to newsmen, the governor condemned the series of terrorist attacks in Pakistan and particularly in Islamabad.

Published in Dawn, February 8th, 2026