Islamabad – Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, attended the Italian Cuisine Week Gala Dinner hosted by the Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan, H.E. Mrs. Marilina Armellin, and Mr. Domenico Pelloni. The prestigious event, held in Islamabad, gathered distinguished dignitaries, diplomats, and members of the international community to celebrate Italy’s exceptional culinary heritage and to further strengthen cultural and bilateral ties.
In his address, Chairman Gilani extended sincere gratitude to Ambassador Armellin and Mr. Pelloni for their gracious hospitality and for curating an evening that elegantly showcased the richness, artistry, and timeless allure of Italian cuisine. He noted that the event was more than a celebration of gastronomy—it served as a meaningful platform to honour friendship, cultural exchange, and the longstanding bonds between Pakistan and Italy.
Chairman Gilani highlighted the warm, cooperative, and steadily expanding relationship shared by the two nations. He emphasized Italy’s important role as a key economic partner in Europe and acknowledged the broadening scope of bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, education, culture, and parliamentary diplomacy.
He also paid a heartfelt tribute to the Pakistani diaspora in Italy, recognizing their valuable contributions to Italian society and their pivotal role in enhancing people-to-people connections between the two countries.
Chairman Gilani underscored that diplomacy flourishes not only through formal engagement but also through cultural exchanges—particularly through the universal language of food, art, music, and shared experiences. In this regard, he appreciated Italian Cuisine Week as an inspiring example of culinary diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and bringing communities closer together.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to advancing institutional cooperation, the Chairman emphasized the Senate’s readiness to further deepen parliamentary engagement with the Italian Senate and other state institutions. He expressed confidence that strengthened collaboration would continue to promote democratic partnership, economic growth, and mutual cultural appreciation.
In conclusion, Chairman Senate Gilani once again thanked the hosts for their warm hospitality and congratulated the Embassy of Italy on successfully organizing an evening that beautifully celebrated Italian culture while reinforcing the spirit of friendship between Pakistan and Italy.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
