BY: ANI Correspondent:
CHICAGO— Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Pir Syed Imran Ahmed Shah, has arrived in Chicago to represent Pakistan at the two-day Turkish Festival, being held on August 1–2 under the auspices of the Zakat Foundation of America.
During the festival, attended by more than 30,000 participants from the Turkish, Pakistani, Indian, Arab, and wider Muslim communities, the Federal Minister will address an international session on “Poverty: A Global Threat.” In his keynote remarks, he will highlight Pakistan’s efforts to combat poverty, outline the government’s social protection initiatives, and discuss the role of the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety in supporting vulnerable communities. He will also share Pakistan’s experiences and recommendations for addressing poverty through international cooperation.
On the second day of the festival, Pir Syed Imran Ahmed Shah will participate in a special session dedicated to the life and teachings of Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi. His address will focus on Rumi’s enduring message of love, peace, spirituality, and humanity, while emphasizing the shared cultural and spiritual heritage that continues to strengthen the bonds between Pakistan and Türkiye.
Prior to the festival, the Federal Minister is scheduled to visit the headquarters of the Zakat Foundation of America, where he will meet the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, Halil Demir. During the visit, he will also interact with prominent members of the Pakistani-American community. The delegation will be briefed on the Foundation’s humanitarian and development initiatives in Pakistan and its global relief efforts, with discussions aimed at further strengthening cooperation in poverty alleviation and social welfare.
