A large crowd gathered at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) on Saturday to experience the lively “EuroVillage” festival, organized by the Delegation of the European Union in partnership with EU Member States.
The event offered residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi a unique chance to explore European culture and heritage through music, cuisine, and engaging activities.
While delivering her welcome address, Dr. Riina Kionka, the Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan noted, “We celebrate the diverse cultures and identities that enrich Europe, forming the foundation of our shared values and our relations with the world, including Pakistan. Together, we are stronger, and our partnership in development, trade, and political engagement reflects this commitment.”
In its sixth edition, EuroVillage offered an afternoon of culture, music, and culinary delights. The festival featured a variety of engaging activities, including information displays from the EU and Member States, live performances, fun games, and an array of food options.
Visitors had the chance to connect with the Team Europe, learn about the diverse areas of collaboration between the European Union and Pakistan.
The festival also showcased the positive impact of the EU on Pakistani communities. Attendees explored development cooperation booths, where beneficiaries shared personal stories illustrating how EU initiatives enrich their lives. This hands-on engagement emphasised the message that the EU and Pakistan are “Stronger Together” through their partnership.
The event also featured live performances by both European and Pakistani artists and performers, including Farhan Saeed. The EuroVillage festival was co-organised by the diplomatic missions of the European Union alongside those of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, and Spain.
All the embassies displayed introductory materials and food to attract visitors. On this occasion, embassy staff members, volunteers, and ambassadors themselves answered visitors’ questions. They also offered giveaways and small souvenirs to guests for answering questions and completing multiple-choice quizzes about European countries.
While networking, visitors were seen taking selfies with foreigners. There were multiple types of photo booths for visitors, but the one featuring Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo was a major attraction for the visitors.
The celebration of culture and partnership at the EuroVillage highlighted the bond between Europe and Pakistan, reinforcing a shared commitment to mutual development and cooperation under the spirit of “Stronger Together.”
