The air in the heart of the UAE capital was rich with the aroma of mangoes as diplomats, dignitaries, and mango enthusiasts gathered to celebrate one of Pakistan’s most cherished exports – the mango.
This wasn’t just a fruit festival, however. It was a masterclass in “sweet diplomacy,” where the gentle power of flavor captivated the world, one succulent slice at a time.
The event, a vibrant blend of trade, taste, and international camaraderie, was orchestrated by the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with the Overseas Foundation Pakistan. From freshly cut Sindhri to delightful mango-infused pastries and refreshing chilled Chaunsa smoothies, the celebration offered a culinary journey that transported taste buds directly to the lush orchards of Punjab and Sindh.
Mangoes: The New Diplomats
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, who inaugurated the event alongside Sheikh Mubarak bin Sultan Al Nahyan of the UAE, declared, “This mango is more than just a fruit – it is Pakistan’s ambassador of taste.”
Ambassador Tirmizi emphasized the mango’s role as a crucial component of Pakistan’s soft diplomacy toolkit, stating, “Pakistan holds the position of the fourth-largest exporter of mangoes globally. Our mangoes are a symbol of affection, generosity, and hospitality.”
‘Sweet Like Your Country’
Beyond the fruit itself, the true highlight of the event was the outpouring of heartfelt responses from foreign diplomats who found themselves utterly enchanted, even somewhat enamored, by Pakistani mangoes.
“Absolutely delicious,” beamed Tuula Yrjölä, the Ambassador of Finland to the UAE and Bahrain.
“Mangoes are my favorite fruit to begin with, and Pakistani mangoes are absolutely fabulous. In Finland, they don’t taste the same – the distance makes a difference. That’s why I’m freezing some here in my freezer so I can enjoy them in smoothies and desserts throughout the year!”
Sibylle Pfaff, the German Consul General in Dubai, expressed similar delight, marveling at the sheer variety. “Mangoes have always been one of my favorite fruits, but the range I’ve seen here is just fantastic – sweet, savory, everything! In Germany, you might find one or two kinds in the supermarket. But here? Five, six, ten types! It’s a festival of taste.”
From Northern Europe to the warmth of Eastern Europe, admiration flowed freely. Silviu Jipa, the seasoned Romanian diplomat and current head of consular services in Abu Dhabi, spoke with charm and affection.
“I’ve worked in many countries over my 38-year career, and I can say — Pakistan always succeeds in promoting mangoes. Everyone knows the sweetest and most wonderful mangoes are from Pakistan. You promote this fruit like a gift — it’s sweet like your country.”
Across the Atlantic, a Canadian diplomat, wife of the Canadian Embassy’s Defence Attaché, shared her surprise. “Back home, we don’t get to taste so many types of mangoes. We think all mangoes are the same. But here, when you try five or six side by side, you realize they each have their own personality. This was like a mango tasting tour — each one better than the last.”
The Sweetest Business: Boosting Trade and Diplomacy
Ali Zeb, Trade Counsellor of Pakistan in the UAE, provided the economic context to the deliciousness. “Despite climate challenges this year, mango exports to the UAE alone are expected to reach $25–30 million.”
“But this is not just about trade — it’s about the warmth that mangoes bring, the stories they tell, and the friendships they foster.”
The festival transcended a mere tasting; it was a complete sensory celebration. Juices, cakes, pastries, chutneys, and a myriad of mango-infused delicacies impressed guests with their inventiveness. Children from the Pakistani community danced and mingled with diplomats, creating a vibrant scene that harmoniously blended culture with commerce.
Dr. Farhan of the Overseas Foundation Pakistan observed, “What began as a simple mango tasting has evolved into a trade and cultural showcase. This is a mango movement.”
Ultimately, what started as slices of fruit transformed into slices of diplomacy – sweet, subtle, and utterly irresistible. The Pakistani Mango Festival didn’t just celebrate a harvest; it demonstrated how a nation can narrate its story not solely through policies and politics, but through flavor, fragrance, and friendship.
