The festival organised by the Pakistan High Commission started with a colourful parade. It was the first-ever open air event held in the heart of London and was participated Pakistani expatriates and the local people.

Prominent among them were first Muslim British Minister Shahid Malik, World Squash Champion Jahangir Khan, former Test cricketer Waqar Younus, a British boxer and artistes and celebrities.

Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to London Dr Maleeha Lodhi said Pakistan was a modern contemporary country proud of its ancient culture. She lauded the role Pakistani expatriates have played to cement friendship between Pakistan and Britain.—PPI