Karachi, March 21, 2018 (PPI-OT):Governor Sindh Mr. Mohammad Zubair while congratulating the British Council on its 70th anniversary in Pakistan appreciated its commitment towards creating better cultural and knowledge links between the people of Pakistan and the UK. This he said while addressing an event to mark the culmination of 70th anniversary celebrations of British Council in Pakistan. These celebrations were started in 2017.
It is pertinent to mention here that 70 years ago, the British Council was one of the first international organizations to set up operations in Pakistan. Throughout 2017 the British Council, along with the British High Commission in Pakistan and the Pakistan High Commission in UK, has celebrated the strong cultural ties between the people of the UK and Pakistan.
Governor Sindh said that collaborative work between the British Council and the Government of Pakistan is also an indication of their confidence in Pakistan and its people. While emphasizing the importance of libraries in learning process of students, Governor Sindh commended the efforts of British Council in this regard. Many of the participants present here would have fond memories of British Council library, he remarked
He said Karachi is becoming city of lights again as social, cultural, economic, literary and sports events are being regularly held here. Such activities are also being attended by foreigners in large numbers which was unimaginable in 2013, he opined.
He said that Karachi was financial hub of the Country and any activity here has a huge impact on the overall economy of the Country. In 2013 no foreigner was willing to come here even on a day trip but due to dedicated efforts of the Government and law enforcement agencies law and order has improved considerably, he added.
Mr. Thomas Drew, British High Commissioner to Pakistan said that he was proud of the work the British Council has done over the last 70 years in Pakistan. Our shared history underpins our commitment towards a shared future that is beneficial for the people of both the countries to create strong cultural and economic connections, he added.
Ms. Rosemary Hilhorst, Director British Council Pakistan, speaking on the occasion said that 70 years ago this month, we opened our door in Karachi to the people, institutions and Government of what was then a new country taking its first strides into the World. Today Pakistan is one of the planet’s largest democracies and amongst the most important nations there is for my organization, and, of course the UK.
She said that we begin our next chapter in Pakistan, the British Council will be relentlessly positive about what we are doing here, about showcasing the immense potential of this country, then helping young people fulfill their talent as we set out to do 70 years ago from one office in this city and today in 30 cities across Pakistan.
The British Council also launched ’70 Years, 70 Stories’ a collection of stories and images showcasing 70 years of the British Council working with the people of Pakistan. The series aims to capture stories from everyday experiences to accounts of a historical relationship between Pakistan and the UK. Thepublication was presented to Governor Sindh by Ms. Rosemary Hilhorst, Director, British Council and Mr. Thomas Drew, British High Commissioner to Pakistan.
For more information, contact:
Advisor to Governor (Higher Education and Media)
Sindh Governor House
Tel: +92-21-99201216-7, +92-21-99201201-3
Email: press@governorsindh.gov.pk
Website: www.governorsindh.gov.pk