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, scheduled for August 1–2 under the auspices of the Zakat Foundation of America.
The festival, expected to attract more than 30,000 participants from the Turkish, Pakistani, Indian, Arab, and broader Muslim communities, will feature the Federal Minister as a keynote speaker in an international session titled “Poverty: A Global Threat.” During his address, he will highlight Pakistan’s efforts to reduce 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 experience and recommendations for tackling poverty through international cooperation.
On the second day of the festival, Pir Syed Imran Ahmed Shah will participate in a special session on the life and teachings of Mawlana Jalaluddin Rumi. His remarks will focus on Rumi’s enduring message of love, peace, spirituality, and humanity, while underscoring the shared cultural and spiritual heritage that continues to strengthen ties between Pakistan and Türkiye.
Ahead of the festival, the Federal Minister will visit the headquarters of the Zakat Foundation of America, where he is scheduled to meet the Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Halil Demir. He will also interact with prominent members of the Pakistani-American community.
The delegation will receive a briefing on the Foundation’s humanitarian and development initiatives in Pakistan, as well as its global relief programmes. Discussions will also explore opportunities to further enhance cooperation in poverty alleviation and social welfare.
