NewsJuly 02, 2017
Pak branding on London buses project ‘beautiful culture’
LONDON: Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK Syed Ibne Abbas has said that ‘Emerging Pakistan’ on London’s red iconic red buses is aimed at introducing the British people and world tourists to Pakistan’s beautiful culture and heritage.Speaking to Geo News here about the campaign, which is now running on three London buses and attracting a lot of attention and praise, the high commissioner said that it has been arranged as part of Pakistan’s 70th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
“We conceived a comprehensive plan to celebrate the anniversary about two years ago. The basic purpose is to introduce the British people to the Pakistani culture and heritage, that is why, we have started bus wrapping project and our desire is that the world again should see Pakistan as an emerging country,” he said.
The high commissioner said that every year 20 millions tourists visit London, and “we have chosen summer for branding Pakistan on London Buses which is a peak season for foreign tourists”.
He said that through these buses, people will see the “ancient buildings of Pakistan, magnificent architecture, highest peak, including K-2, beautiful landscapes, and endangered species of Markhor and snow leopard of Chitral”.
He added: “They will also see images of Shandur Polo Festival. As you know the British Royal family also patronises the sport of Polo, which is very popular in the UK. We have also shown the portrait of the Quaid-e-Azam on these buses. All this is to celebrate the fact that Pakistan is an emerging nation. At this moment Pakistan's economy is progressing, and it is at an upward trajectory.”
Syed Ibne Abbas said that The MSCI has upgraded Pakistan’s status from frontier market to emerging market. Since the CPEC start, Pakistan's narrative has changed in the world, he said. The high commissioner said that now UK sees Pakistan as a land of opportunities.
“Britain is also looking for new markets after Brexit, and it makes Pakistan a favourite destination for British investment. We have culture, ancient civilisation, history, and much more to show to the world. What we need is we should introduce Pakistan to the rest of the world.
The feedback about these buses is overwhelmingly positive and welcoming, both from the community as well as the British people. We are getting the best feedback which is very encouraging. We are very excited about this initiative. These buses will attract a lot of tourists to Pakistan,” he added.
The high commissioner revealed the Pakistan High Commission is going to install the bust of Quaid-e-Azam at his alma meter, Lincoln's Inn, this year. “This will be a tribute to our great leader. London is a place where statues of most of the great leaders of the world have been installed. Quaid-e-Azam's bust in Lincoln's Inn Library will be a welcome addition.”
He said that the grand finale of Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations would be Anglo Sufi Musical, ISHQ, which is based on ancient folklore of Heer Ranjha. “This will show the rich cultural side of Pakistan to the world. The play will be staged at prestigious Sadler's Wells Theatre of London. My message to our community is that we should participate in these celebrations like the members of a vibrant nation and get counted.
Courtesy www.thenews.com.pk
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