Pakistan culture festival held in Brussels

A festival celebrating Pakistani culture was held in Brussels near the Belgian capital's central Grand-Place as part of celebrations marking Pakistan's Independence Day.

According to Report's European bureau, the festival, organized by the Embassy of Pakistan, introduced residents and visitors to the country's traditions and cultural heritage.

The event also served as a platform for cultural exchange between Pakistan and Europe.

Speaking ahead of the event, Pakistan's Federal Minister Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon said the festival carried a message of friendship, openness and cooperation with the European Union. He said cultural exchanges were among the most effective ways of strengthening mutual understanding and friendly relations between peoples.

Throughout the day, stands at Agora Square offered traditional Pakistani dishes, handicrafts and souvenirs. Visitors could sample national cuisine, purchase traditional products and have henna designs applied.

The festival also featured music and dance performances. Musical programmes were shown on a large screen, while live performances on traditional drums were accompanied by dancing. Professional performers, festival organizers and guests alike joined in the celebrations.