Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Africa Day proposed the establishment of a joint Pakistan-Africa cultural forum and called for greater cultural and musical exchanges between Pakistan and African countries, saying such initiatives could help strengthen people-to-people ties and promote a positive image of both sides.
Addressing a ceremony attended by African ambassadors and high commissioners, Tarar said Pakistan wanted to deepen cooperation in areas that could showcase the cultural richness of both sides.
“I would like to make a proposal before your excellencies to have a joint forum to celebrate the African culture, the African music, and the great values that this music and traditions bring along with it,” he said.
The minister also proposed greater exchanges of musical troupes between Pakistan and African countries, saying Africa’s cultural traditions had been preserved over generations and offered valuable opportunities for mutual learning.
“We would like to learn more about the African culture, about the African music, about the ancient African tribes who still exist in harmony over the vast expanse of Africa,” he said.
Describing Africa Day as a celebration of diversity, culture and values, Tarar said the occasion reflected the determination of African nations to overcome challenges.
Referring to the declaration of the current year as the Year of Water Sustainability, he said water occupied a central place in Pakistan’s identity and history.
“In our culture, they say water is life,” he said, adding that Pakistanis traced their identity, culture and values to the Indus Valley Civilisation and the banks and tributaries of the Indus River.
Tarar said Africa Day was not a distant observance for Pakistan but a reminder of a shared history and common aspirations.
Like many African countries, Pakistan emerged from colonial rule with aspirations for equal participation in the global order, he said, adding that this shared historical experience had formed the basis of a longstanding bond of friendship and solidarity between Pakistan and African nations.
The minister praised Africa’s geographical diversity, referring to the Serengeti savannas, the Sahara and Namib deserts, and the rainforests of the Congo Basin.
Turning to Pakistan’s relations with the continent, Tarar said Islamabad’s engagement was guided by the “Engage Africa” policy.
“From Egypt to South Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia, we believe in engagement,” he said.
The policy, he added, reflected Pakistan’s determination to strengthen and expand political, economic and cultural relations with African countries on a sustained basis.
“We see Africa not only as a partner in diplomacy, but as a central pillar of Pakistan’s broader foreign policy outreach,” he said.
The minister said Pakistan had steadily expanded its diplomatic footprint across the continent and was cooperating with African countries in trade, education, capacity building, health and defence, with the objective of promoting mutual benefit and shared growth.
Tarar also highlighted Africa’s contributions in culture, music, water sustainability, climate change, wildlife conservation and sports.
Referring to the FIFA World Cup, which he said had kicked off a day earlier, he expressed support for African teams, noting that athletes from the continent had consistently excelled in international competitions, including the Olympics.
“Sports have no language. Sports are something that we cherish, it brings us together,” he said.
The minister said Africa stood at a transformative moment in its history, driven by the world’s largest young population, rapidly growing economies, increasing urbanisation and expanding technological adoption.
He described contemporary Africa as “a story of resilience and ambition”, pointing to entrepreneurs building new industries, young innovators shaping digital futures and societies investing in education, science and connectivity.
“The story of Africa today is a story of resilience and ambition. It is a story that deserves global recognition and partnership, not patronization,” he said.
Tarar also recalled the vision of Nelson Mandela for “an Africa which is in peace with itself” and a continent defined not by the wounds of its past but by the promise of its future.
Concluding his remarks, the minister thanked the participants for the opportunity to address the gathering and extended greetings on Africa Day, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening friendship and cooperation with African nations.
“Long live Pakistan-Africa friendship,” he said.