The first flight landed in Islamabad with a grand welcome from Pakistani and British citizens
It will help promote tourism, trade and furthering of ties between United Kingdom and Pakistan.
Virgin Atlantic lands its first flight in Pakistan as part of Pak-UK friendship. It is one of the huge successes of Pakistan’s government. Moreover, Special Advisor to Prime Minister of Pakistan for overseas Pakistanis Mr Zulfi Bukhari and British High Commissioner Mr Christian Turner came to receive the first flight of Virgin Atlantic in Pakistan.
For last two decades, Pakistan’s image remained stark due to extremism in the country and heavy bloodshed after terrorism. The Western countries would often issue travel advisories asking their citizens to avoid visiting Pakistan. Rather, Pakistan would remain in the limelight for terror-related incidents only. However, the Pakistani State was able to fight terrorism after decisive battle with terrorists.
The War on Terror after the 9/11 incident did change the global patterns. However, its impact on Pakistan was worst. The country was fighting terrorists and extremists internally. And, externally, there was negativity and antagonism. In all this, the tourism was dying, economy trembling and security threats increasing. Further, the decades long fight was almost over as the second decade came to end.
The United Kingdom has come to support as one of the key international players. It is supporting Pakistan in getting back its soft image. Last year, Prince William and Princess Kate came on an official visit to Pakistan. It did help Pakistan in gaining back its softer image globally.
Virgin Atlantic in Pakistan
There was visible excitement within the Virgin Atlantic team, British High Commission in Pakistan and the Pakistani government. The official handle of Virgin Atlantic came up with the announcement, “Salam Pakistan.” It further adds, “We’re thrilled to let you know that our inaugural flight from @manairport to Islamabad took off today with services from @heathrowairport to Islamabad and Lahore also commencing this month. We can’t wait to take you there.”
Similarly, British High Commissioner Mr. Christian Turner also came on Twitter to congratulate Pakistanis at the occasion. Beginning with “Bohat Mubarak” which translates to warm greetings, he shares his picture at the airport.
https://twitter.com/CTurnerFCDO/status/1337244538239406081/photo/2
Special Advisor to Prime Minister of Pakistan for overseas Pakistanis Mr Zulfi Bukhari also welcomes the arrival of Virgin Atlantic. “Great new step for our UK&EU based diaspora. Pakistan is more connected & open for travel & tourism today than it has been in decades.,” says Mr. Bukhari in his tweet.
