A literary event titled “Literary Connections,” organized by the National Book Foundation in Karachi, brought together writers, poets, educators and political leaders to celebrate reading, research and the role of literature in national development. Federal Minister for Education and Vocational Training and MQM-Pakistan Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui served as the guest of honor, praised the city’s economic importance and urged greater engagement of youth with books and research.
The program featured two segments — prose readings followed by poetry — and showcased contributions from prominent literati, including poet and scholar Professor Sahar Ansari, Professor Dr Shadab Ehsani, Professor Noushaba Siddiqui and Dr Yasmin Sultana Farooq. Their works were warmly received by the audience, adding cultural depth to the proceedings.
National Book Foundation Managing Director Kamran Jahangir outlined the foundation’s current initiatives, highlighting plans to establish overseas centers, organize academic competitions for students, present literary awards and expand book-lover programs aimed at promoting reading culture.
Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, addressing the gathering, emphasized the centrality of books and writing to a nation’s progress and survival. He said MQM-Pakistan has consistently linked politics with knowledge, awareness and civic education. He also described Karachi as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and argued that the city’s prosperity is key to the country’s overall stability.
Highlighting youth engagement, Dr Khalid called for increased involvement of young people in reading, research and literary activities, stating that such efforts are essential to building an informed, developed and resilient Pakistan.
The event was attended by a large audience including Senator Khalida Ateeb, Deputy Parliamentary Leader of the Sindh Assembly Tahir Ahmed Khan, members of the national and provincial assemblies Ahmad Saleem Siddiqui, Farhan Chishti, Adil Askari and Ejaz ul Haq, as well as APMSO central in-charge Hafiz Sheharyar, teachers and citizens.
The ceremony concluded with honors for participating poets and writers. Attendees praised MQM-Pakistan’s leadership for promoting a vision that places literature and learning at the heart of national development, and the party affirmed its intention to continue advancing initiatives in education, awareness and public service.
