A photography exhibition showcasing the landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage of Pakistan and Kenya has highlighted efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries through cultural diplomacy.
The exhibition, organised in collaboration with the Pakistan Africa Economic Council and participating photographers, presented images reflecting the natural beauty and cultural diversity of both nations.
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, praised the initiative, saying it provided an opportunity to promote mutual understanding and showcase the country’s artistic talent internationally.
He said the exhibition provided an opportunity to strengthen cultural understanding between Pakistan and Kenya and acknowledged the contribution of the Kenyan High Commissioner and international partners, including UNESCO and the United Nations.
He expressed hope that a similar exhibition featuring Pakistani photography would be organised abroad to highlight Pakistan’s cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Kenya’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Lieutenant General (Retired) Peter Mbogo Njiru, described the event as a celebration of friendship and shared human experiences. He said photography could overcome geographical and linguistic barriers and bring people closer through a shared appreciation of nature and culture.
The high commissioner highlighted Kenya’s tourism attractions, including wildlife safaris, coastal beaches, mountains, forests and lakes. He drew comparisons with Pakistan’s mountains and valleys, saying both countries had opportunities to promote tourism and cultural exchange.
He also called for stronger cooperation in tourism, culture, youth engagement and people-to-people exchanges, alongside existing ties in trade, investment, education and agriculture.
He invited Pakistani citizens, members of the diplomatic community and international visitors to discover Kenya’s natural beauty and hospitality.
Pakistan Africa Economic Council General Secretary Sheikh Rashid Alam welcomed the exhibition and called for stronger cultural and economic cooperation between Pakistan and African countries, inviting African nations to work jointly with Pakistan.
Photographer Dr Usman-ul-Haq thanked the Pakistan National Council of the Arts and other institutions for supporting the exhibition, while National Assembly member Ikhtiar Baig called for greater government facilitation to expand Pakistan’s engagement with African nations.