Pakistan’s first lady at Republic Day in Karachi

Celebration hosted by Consul Belli, between cuisine and glamour

The Consul of Italy in Karachi, Fabrizio Bielli, hosted a grand celebration for the 2025 Italian Republic Day on

Thursday evening. The event brought together a distinguished group of diplomats, government officials,

parliamentarians and prominent personalities from various fields.

This was announced in a statement.
The First Lady of Pakistan, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, graced the occasion as guest of honour, accompanied by Faryal

Talpur, President of the Women’s Wing of the Pakistan People’s Party, and the Prime Minister of Sindh, Syed

Murad Ali Shah. Other ministers, senior officials and representatives of the diplomatic corps were also present.
In his speech, Consul Bielli emphasised the long-standing and friendly relations between Italy and Pakistan,

stressing in particular the growing cooperation in the economic and trade spheres.

He emphasised the positive trajectory of bilateral relations and expressed optimism for the further strengthening of

cross-sectoral partnerships. As part of the celebration, the Italian Consulate invited renowned Neapolitan chef

Vincenzo De Liso to present the richness of Italy’s culinary heritage. The carefully prepared menu offered authentic

Italian cuisine, reflecting the diverse and lively gastronomic traditions of Naples. Guests were also treated to high-

quality Italian Illy coffee, traditional ice cream, and an assortment of fine Italian cheeses for an authentic Italian

experience.

Bielli also announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Italian Consulate and

Emirates Airlines. The agreement aims to strengthen economic and commercial cooperation, with Emirates exploring

opportunities to support diplomatic, commercial and cultural initiatives organised by the Italian Consulate. The

airline will also facilitate promotional campaigns and commercial initiatives related to Italy.

A highlight of the evening was an exclusive prize draw sponsored by Italian fashion brand Versace. Consul Bielli

invited First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Faryal Talpur and Prime Minister Murad Ali Shah to join him on stage to

announce the winners, adding a touch of glamour to an already lively celebration, the statement concluded.