Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Syed Imran Ahmad Shah, will participate in the two-day Turkish Festival, being held in Chicago on August 1–2 under the auspices of the Zakat Foundation of America.
The festival brings together members of the Turkish, Pakistani, Arab and wider Muslim communities, providing a platform for dialogue on issues of shared social and humanitarian importance.
During the festival, the Federal Minister will address an international session titled "Poverty: A Global Threat." He will highlight Pakistan's efforts in poverty alleviation, 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 addressing poverty through international cooperation.
On the second day of the festival, Syed Imran Ahmad 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 highlighting the shared cultural and spiritual heritage between Pakistan and Türkiye.
As part of the programme, 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 members of the Pakistani-American community. During the visit, he will be briefed on the Foundation's humanitarian and development initiatives in Pakistan and its global relief efforts, with discussions focusing on opportunities for continued cooperation in poverty alleviation and social welfare.
