- Punjab CM praises Expo theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’ during briefing by organisers
- Ajrak, Blue Pottery and Punjab’s craftsmanship showcased as symbols of Pakistan’s cultural identity
- Over 1.2 million visitors to Pakistan pavilion cited as proof of global interest in local products
LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Saturday lauded the theme of the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan—“Designing Future Society for Our Lives”—during a meeting with Expo Association General Manager Achinoki Manatsu, who briefed her on preparations for the global event.
The CM said the Expo’s focus on innovative solutions to social challenges was “highly valuable,” noting that such platforms highlight tools and methods to save lives, improve public services, and promote sustainable development.
Showcasing Pakistan’s cultural richness, Maryam Nawaz briefed the Expo officials about Pakistan’s handicrafts, particularly Sindh’s Ajrak and Multan’s blue pottery, which she said reflected the country’s centuries-old artistic heritage. She emphasized Punjab’s wealth of natural treasures and the skill of local artisans in transforming them into globally admired products.
“Arrival of 1.2 million visitors to Pakistan’s pavilion in past expos proves the world’s deep interest in Pakistani products,” she observed, adding that Punjab was eager to use the Expo to project its diverse culture, craftsmanship, and development potential before the international community.
The Expo officials welcomed the CM’s keen interest, while Achinoki Manatsu expressed gratitude for her visit and stressed the importance of Pakistan’s participation in strengthening global cultural and economic linkages.
Allotment of flats to Industrial Workers
In a separate development, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed the launch of allotment of flats to industrial workers, fulfilling a long-standing demand for low-cost housing.
Under Phase-I, applications have been invited from industrial workers of Lahore and Kasur districts for 750 flats being offered free of cost at the Workers Welfare Complex, Sundar Industrial Estate Kasur.
A special 3% quota has been reserved for widows of deceased industrial workers and 2% for disabled workers to ensure inclusivity in the housing scheme.
The CM noted that industrial workers can now download application forms directly from the websites www.pwwf.punjab.gov.pk and www.labour.punjab.gov.pk, or obtain them free of cost from the Director Labour Welfare North and Deputy Director Labour Welfare South offices.
The last date for submission of applications is September 8, while a two-thirds quota has been allocated for Kasur-based workers and one-third for Lahore workers.
Authorities further announced that workers can also seek guidance through helplines 049-2724261, 0331-4436944, and 042-99260240.
Officials underscored that the initiative reflects the CM’s commitment to the welfare of industrial workers, who are the backbone of Punjab’s economy.
