The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Pakistan and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, organised the Korea-Pakistan Cultural Gala at Liaquat Gymnasium, as part of the Korea-Pakistan Cultural Week. Pakistani and Korean artists showcased mesmerising music, dance, and art performances on the occasion.
Pakistani artists Bilal Saeed, Natasha Baig, Uzair Jaswal and music band Khumariyaan performed, while the Kukkiwon Taekwondo Demonstration Team from Korea enthralled the spectators and received thunderous applause.
Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture Attaullah Tarar, Chairman PMYP Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Prime Minister’s Media Coordinator Badar Shahbaz, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Park Kijun attended the event.
Other events during the week included the Korea-Pakistan Movie Day, which screened four critically acclaimed films from 24 to 27 October at PNCA, Islamabad, highlighting the diversity and creativity of both countries’ cinema. Korean movies “Ode to My Father” and “The Himalayas” were shown alongside Pakistani hits “Nayab” and “Superstar.”
The Korea-Pakistan Cultural Week 2024 was observed to strengthen the spirit of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
Australia to offer new scholarships to Pakistani students
Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins has announced plans to introduce new scholarships for Pakistani students, in a meeting with Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Chairperson Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan at PMYP’s office in Islamabad. The Australian High Commissioner expressed his admiration for the talent and potential of Pakistani youth, stating, “The youth of Pakistan are an asset to the nation.”
In conversation with Ambassador Hawkins, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan emphasised his long-standing commitment to youth affairs, having served in the domain since 2002. He highlighted the significant strides made by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) as the first political party to introduce a comprehensive youth policy.
Rana Mashhood elaborated on the achievements of the Prime Minister’s Youth Loan Scheme, noting that approximately 186 billion rupees have been distributed among young entrepreneurs to foster economic development and self-sufficiency.
The discussions also focused on the potential for cultural exchange programmes between Australia and Pakistan, particularly in the areas of sports and education. Rana Mashhood proposed initiatives for mutual training in sports, aimed at enhancing skills and building partnerships.
Key officials including PMYP’s Focal Person for Sports Khawaja Junaid, and Focal Person for International Relations Syeda Aamna Batool attended this meeting.
Chairman PMYP meets Bosnian envoy
Chairman PMYP Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan met with the Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Pakistan Emin Cohodarevic to explore potential collaborations aimed at empowering youth in both countries.
During the meeting, Ambassador Cohodarevic expressed his heartfelt gratitude for Pakistan’s continued support over the years. He commended initiatives implemented under the PMYP, which have significantly contributed to the development and empowerment of young people in Pakistan.
Ambassador Cohodarevic highlighted the positive impact of these initiatives and expressed a keen interest in replicating this successful model in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He noted that collaboration in youth programmes could enhance skills, provide opportunities, and strengthen the bonds between the youth of both nations.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan welcomed the ambassador’s enthusiasm. “This meeting marks a significant step towards establishing a collaborative framework for youth initiatives that can benefit both Pakistan and Bosnia,” Khan said.
