ISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday visited Lok Virsa Family Festival held here and highlighted the cultural richness and diversity of the country.

He also visited the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh pavilions. He was accompanied by the Sindh Minister for Sports and Culture Syed Zulfiqar Shah.

During his visit, the governor was presented with a traditional Chitrali cap and shawl by the senior officials of the Tourism Authority.

Governor Kundi took a keen interest in the various stalls set up by artisans from different regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh including stalls showcasing intricate embroidery work and beautifully crafted wooden items.

Urges people to unite for bringing back vibrant spirit of KP

The governor particularly appreciated the stalls displaying the famous Jandri craft from Dera Ismail Khan.

He also visited the Pashto music stalls, where he met artists and applauded their performances. Additionally, he took a moment to enjoy a cup of traditional Peshawari Kehwa at one of the stalls.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor Kundi emphasised that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was rich in talent and cultural heritage.

He urged people to unite in order to bring back the vibrant spirit of the province.

The event saw many visitors, including children and local residents, taking selfies with the governor, expressing their joy at his presence.

The governor also appreciated the arrangements made by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Development Authority for setting up the pavilion.

Talking to media after the visit, the governor highlighted the significance of cultural festivals in promoting the rich heritage and skills of different areas.

Mr Kundi emphasised that similar events were crucial for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, not only to foster a positive image of the province but also to counter terrorism.

The governor also stressed the importance of promoting such cultural events in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to reduce terrorism in the region.

He asserted that the province was not a land of terrorists or extremists, but home to great individuals and talented people.

Regarding the ongoing situation of terrorism in the province, he expressed concern, calling it a worrying issue that needed serious attention to improve the country’s international image.

Commenting on the political situation in the province, Governor Kundi remarked on the establishment of two parallel governments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following the arrival of Bushra Bibi.

Addressing a question about the upcoming protest call by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) on November 24, Kundi described it as a “misguided call” and suggested that there could be more protests in the future.

Governor Kundi concluded by saying that the leaders of political parties must play a constructive role for the stability and peace of the country to prevent it from facing further challenges.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2024