Webinar on 'Celebrating Africa Day' - Press Release issued by Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad.

Islamabad -- May 21, 2020 (PPI-OT)

Following is the text of press release issued by Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)

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The Centre of Middle East and Africa (CMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a WebCelebration to commemorate Africa Day on May 20, 2020. The event was held in advance because Africa Day which is celebrated the world over on May 25 is falling during the Eid break this year. The Keynote address was given by H.E. Prof. Julius Kibet Bitok, High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya and Dean of African Countries' Ambassadors in Pakistan, while the Chief Guest in the occasion was Mr. Ali Javed, Additional Secretary Africa, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan.

Other speakers included Ambassador Imran Yawar, Former Ambassador-designate to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Dr Rukhsana Siddiqui, Former HoD, IR Department, Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad and African Expert. The webinar was moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CMEA, ISSI.

Introducing the subject of the webinar, Ms. Amina Khan said never once looking back, our African brothers and sisters have turned adversity into opportunity and are embracing the future with arms wide open. Steadfastness in the face of hardship is what Pakistan shares with Africa and this is precisely what makes up the foundation of our future ties with Africa, she said.

She believed that for Pakistan-Africa ties; a better tomorrow awaits and ended her speech with words of Mr. Nelson Mandela describing Pakistan's relations with Africa: "Our nations are joined, not only by cultural and religious bonds, but also by common experiences and challenges." Ms. Fatima Raza, Research Associate CMEA, ISSI gave a presentation on Pakistan-Africa relationship, stressing on the 'Engage Africa' policy.

In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Director General Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad said that 'A prosperous Africa, based on inclusive growth and sustainable development' is the theme for this year's Africa Day. The idea is premised on equitable opportunities and equitable benefits which is exactly what Pakistan wants to achieve itself, he said.

In his address, Ambassador Bitok said that the African group of ambassadors and high commissioners in Pakistan are happy with the steps the government of Pakistan and people of Pakistan have taken to engage with Africa. He highlighted the notable efforts by the government of...