SWAT: The ambassadors of five Central Asian Republics praised the hospitality of the people of Swat and said they were inspired by the natural beauty and ancient history of the valley.

They visited Swat the other day and attended a luncheon hosted by National Commissioner for Boy Scouts Association Sardar Waqar Shahzad advocate at his residence in Kanju.

The dignitaries included Atadjan Molvomao, dean of diplomatic corps, ambassador of Azerbaijan Ali Alezada, ambassador of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Kistadin, ambassador of Kyrgyzstan Erik Beishembiev and ambassador of Tajikistan Ismatolu Naseruddin.

Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Waqar said it was a great honour for him to host representatives of the Central Asian countries with whom Pakistan had strong relations, including in the area of development cooperation.

“Today, I am indeed privileged to receive you here at my home,” he said and added that Swat was described as Uddiyana (the garden) in ancient Hindu epics.

He said that Alexander the Great crossed Swat River with part of his army in 327BC and fought and won some of his major battles at Barikot and Odigram.

He said that in Greek accounts these towns had been identified as Ora and Bazira. “We are one of the most peaceful, religious, peace-loving and hospitable people who spread nothing, but love,” he maintained.

The ambassadors praised the scenic beauty of Swat and hospitalityof its people.

They also planted an olive sapling as a token of love and peace. They were also presented gifts of the local traditional woodcarvings on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, June 28th, 2021