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First Lady Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari has called for greater human solidarity, compassion and understanding. She stressed that scientific and technological progress must go hand in hand with humanity’s ability to care for one another.
She made these remarks as the chief guest at the second edition of the Diplomatic Bazaar, titled “Confluence — A Celebration of Human Dignity, Friendship and Universal Brotherhood.” The Foreign Affairs Liaison Office (FALO), Karachi, organised the event at the State Guest House under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The First Lady formally inaugurated the bazaar and visited stalls representing participating countries. She interacted with diplomats and explored traditional cuisines, handicrafts, artwork and cultural heritage displayed by diplomatic missions.
Addressing the gathering, Asifa Bhutto Zardari described Karachi as a reflection of Pakistan’s diversity, resilience and generosity. She noted that the city’s many languages, cultures and communities contribute to its unique identity.
She said people may belong to different cultures, but their hopes and aspirations remain similar. Everyone seeks peace, opportunities, security and a better future for their children.
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She expressed hope that the connections established through the bazaar would create new opportunities for young people, women entrepreneurs, artists and businesses.
The First Lady also discussed rapid scientific and technological progress, particularly artificial intelligence. She observed that AI is transforming how people learn, work, communicate and shape their futures.
However, she pointed out that millions still face poverty, hunger, conflict and displacement despite these advances.
“We are teaching machines to think, but have we learned to care for one another? We are making technology more intelligent, but are we making humanity more compassionate?” she said.
Referring to her mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the First Lady recalled her vision of a Pakistan that would stand confidently and with dignity among nations.
She said her mother had championed dialogue over confrontation and wanted Pakistan to contribute to lasting regional and international peace.
According to Asifa Bhutto Zardari, this vision continues to guide Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts. These efforts focus on building understanding, resolving differences through dialogue and promoting cooperation and shared prosperity.
She also recalled her mother’s belief in standing together during difficult times. The First Lady said the world already faces enough divisions and needs greater courage to care for others.
Asifa Bhutto Zardari said the suffering of innocent children in Gaza and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, as well as other parts of the world, cannot be ignored during celebrations of international friendship.
She emphasised that human dignity must apply to everyone and compassion must not depend on circumstances.
She stressed that lasting peace cannot exist without justice.
Diplomatic Bazaar 2.0 brought together representatives from more than 25 countries. It provided a platform to showcase traditional cuisines, handicrafts, arts and cultural heritage.
Senior government officials, diplomats, business community representatives and members of the public attended the event.
Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon appreciated the initiative. He reaffirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to cultural and economic engagement with international partners.
Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Oman’s Consul General, Sami Abdullah Salim Al Khanjari, highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
He said the bazaar allowed diplomats to connect with the public beyond formal diplomatic settings. It also enabled participating countries to share their traditions, heritage and cultural identities.
He appreciated the initiative for strengthening people-to-people connections and promoting friendship and cooperation.
Additional Foreign Secretary Ambassador Muhammad Khalid Jamali conveyed greetings from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar.
Earlier, FALO Karachi Director General Muhammad Irfan Soomro welcomed participants. He highlighted the bazaar’s role in bringing diplomacy closer to the public and strengthening engagement with diplomatic missions.
The event also featured cultural performances by Pakistan and participating countries. These performances reflected diverse traditions and celebrated cultural expression and international friendship.
At the conclusion, the First Lady distributed awards to participating countries in recognition of their involvement. She also joined the cake-cutting ceremony, marking the occasion and celebrating the spirit of friendship and togetherness.
