Pakistani CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Hosts Defense Attaches from 16 Countries

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif hosted a luncheon at Lahore Fort for defense attaches from 16 different countries, including the United States, Russia, Germany, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nigeria, Bulgaria, Rwanda, Tajikistan, and the Philippines.

The Chief Minister personally welcomed the distinguished guests at the historical Shahi Arz Gah (royal courtyard) of the Lahore Fort, where she also greeted the attaches’ families and interacted with children, showing them warmth and hospitality. During the event, the foreign delegates were given a tour of the historic sites within the Lahore Fort, including the world-renowned Picture Wall. The guests took selfies with Maryam Nawaz, further enhancing the personal connection between the visitors and their host.

Maryam Nawaz emphasized Lahore’s cultural and historical significance, stating that the city is not only the heart of Punjab but also the cultural and historical soul of Pakistan. She highlighted the city’s rich heritage, including landmarks like the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and Shalimar Gardens, which she described as living representations of a glorious past. Lahore, she noted, beautifully blends tradition with modernity and continues to evolve culturally.

The Chief Minister also spoke of Lahore’s world-renowned cuisine and its unmatched hospitality, which she described as a testament to the warmth and generosity of its people. She expressed her hope that the defense attaches, upon returning to their respective countries, would become ambassadors for Pakistan, strengthening bilateral relations.

During the event, Colonel Ahmed, the Defense Attaché from Iraq, extended an invitation to Maryam Nawaz for a visit to Iraq. Additionally, Kamran Lashari, Director General of the Lahore Walled City Authority, briefed the attendees on the historical importance of the Lahore Fort, while the foreign guests expressed their interest in the fort’s ancient archaeological artifacts. The defense attaches presented souvenirs to the Chief Minister as a token of appreciation for the hospitality.