The latest addition to the Latin American group of ambassadors to Pakistan, Ambassador of Mexico, His Excellency Arturo Hernandez-Basave and his wife Amparo, along with the High Commissioner of Bangladesh, Her Excellency, Yasmeen Murshed, were guests of honour at a dinner hosted by the ambassador of Argentina and Mrs Martin-Saravia. In his speech the host said he was happy to introduce the new comers to some of his friends and welcomed the addition of a fourth envoy from a country in South America (Cuba and Brazil are already represented by ambassadors) as they could form a strong group to promote bilateral relations between Pakistan and their countries, something which had been ignored for a long time. In his usual, considerate manner he introduced each guest with a few words about them and what they are doing and thanked them for accepting his invitation and being there to welcome the newcomers. The guest of honour thanked his hosts for the warm welcome he and his wife had received at their home and the introduction to the guestsaround the table, whom they were very pleased to meet and hoped theywould become good friends. He too spoke of a 'South American bloc' and the promotion of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Mexico. High commissioner of Bangladesh, Yasmin Murshed said our hosts were a charming and friendly couple whom it was a pleasure to know. It turned out to be a pleasant evening of interaction and I'm sure the main objective of getting to know the new addition to the diplomatic corps was well achieved.
To celebrate the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Benedict XV1, Bishopof Rome, Sovereign of the Vatican City State and head of the Roman Catholic Church, the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana hosted a reception at a local hotel which was well attended, with senior envoys on most diplomats present to congratulate the host. Among the other guests were members of the embassy. Present on the occasion were Sisters from the convents in and around the capital and four elected representatives of the Christian community in the National Assembly, who took part in the cake cutting ceremony. The atmosphere was cheerful and relaxed. As many of us have studied in convents, respect for these dedicated ladies of the church still remains with us even after the passage of many years. Groups of envoys were seen joining together probably discussing the unfolding of the political scenario in the country. ‘A guest confided that ever since his arrival our friendly host of the evening has worked to promote mutual respect and understanding among members of the community. He has activated the church more than it has been in a long time and generally been promoting a better understanding of both sides.