Karachi, 13 August 2024: In a ceremony commemorating Pakistan’s Independence Day, Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the First Lady of Pakistan, was honored with the prestigious Soft Diplomacy Award by the UAE Consulate in Karachi. The award recognized her tireless humanitarian efforts in the fight against polio and her successful advocacy for the UAE government’s support in polio vaccination initiatives in Pakistan, particularly in the province of Balochistan.
Accompanied by Faryal Talpur, President of the Pakistan Peoples Party Women’s Wing, who was also recognized for her efforts in strengthening relations with the United Arab Emirates, Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari received the award as part of the UAE Consulate’s Soft Diplomacy program. This initiative celebrates individuals who have significantly contributed to fostering diplomatic and humanitarian ties between Pakistan and the UAE.
Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari’s advocacy has been instrumental in securing crucial support from the UAE in addressing one of Pakistan’s most pressing public health challenges—polio eradication. Her efforts have led to a significant reduction in polio cases, marking a milestone in the country’s ongoing battle against the disease.
In her acceptance speech, Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and reiterated her unwavering commitment to the cause of a polio-free Pakistan. She emphasized the critical role of international cooperation in health initiatives and praised the UAE government for its steadfast support, particularly in vulnerable regions like Balochistan. “The fight against polio is one that every Pakistani should fight to secure a better, brighter future for our children,” she stated. “It pains me that we are one of the two countries in the world still unable to eradicate this menace. I remain committed to this fight, to a polio-free Pakistan. I must acknowledge that the UAE has stood steadfast in its support for a polio-free Pakistan.”
Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also highlighted the strong, enduring ties between Pakistan and the UAE, acknowledging the UAE’s consistent support in various crises faced by Pakistan. “Pakistan has been fortunate to count the UAE as one of its friends, and we have always relied on your support in times of trouble. Be it our fight against polio, devastating earthquakes, or catastrophic floods, you have stood beside us, at the forefront, reminding us that we are not alone,” she remarked.
Reflecting on the deep personal and national ties between the two nations, she added, “As the UAE has gone from strength to strength under dynamic leadership, so has our friendship. And many individuals, not least the honorable Consul General here, have worked hard to further and better these bilateral ties. On a personal level, our family’s relationship with the UAE has been an immense source of happiness for us over many years. For me, Dubai remains my second home. I cherish the years spent there and look forward to my visits even now.”
The event, held at the UAE Consulate in Karachi, was attended by distinguished guests, diplomats, and representatives from various sectors who have contributed to enhancing Pakistan-UAE relations. The ceremony concluded with Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Faryal Talpur participating in a plantation drive under the Green Pakistan Initiative, further demonstrating their commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Ms. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari’s recognition not only highlights her significant contributions to polio eradication but also underscores the importance of soft diplomacy in strengthening international relations and achieving common humanitarian goals.
