Prince Charles, of UK’s royal family, has thanked President Arif Alvi for sending the royal family a gift of Pakistani mangoes, said a statement released from the President’s Media Office on Tuesday.
Prince of Wales, and heir-to-throne, in a letter addressed to President Alvi, said he and his wife, Camilla Parker, were appreciative of the excellent gift. The Prince had described Pakistani mangoes as ‘very tasty’ in the letter.
President Alvi has sent Pakistani mangoes to the heads of state of various countries under ‘mango diplomacy.’
President Alvi tweeted: “Mango diplomacy, that was done this year, is the best way to expose heads of states & govts, princes & kings to Pakistan, creating a soft image describing Pakistan as a ‘strategic economic hub’ with exquisite culture, traditions, cuisine, fruits, and above all its people.”
Mango diplomacy, that was done this year, is the best way to expose heads of states & govts, princes & kings to Pakistan, creating a soft image describing Pakistan as a 'strategic economic hub' with exquisite culture, traditions, cuisine, fruits, and above all its people. https://t.co/3Qnle88BJ5
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) October 7, 2020
The initiative is aimed at introducing one of the best produces of Pakistan to the world and to increase the export of Pakistani fruits to other countries. Pakistani fruits, especially mangoes, are recognized for their quality and taste globally.
Read more: Pakistan’s “King of Fruit” exports set to nosedive amid pandemic
Mangoes make up a substantial export item of Pakistan and are a major contributor to the economy.
According to recent reports, Emirates Skycargo has transported 10million mangoes from Pakistan this season despite disruptions from pandemic coronavirus. The mangoes were transported to UAE, UK, US, Canada, Australia, France, Singapore, and Malaysia markets this season.
Read more: Japan eager to import famous Pakistani exports like mangoes, rice, and textiles
By August 2020, mango export has earned the country $72 million in foreign exchange, reported Dawn News. The newspaper reported that the country exported 45,000 tonnes above the set target.