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PESHAWAR: Foreign tourist Michael Johnson described the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as peace-loving, hospitable and open-minded.
He recently traveled to different parts of the provincial capital and shared his views with a group of local activists, saying his close interactions with Peshawarites defied the image portrayed by the media as he witnessed first-hand the The true situation.
The Australian tourist, who lives in London, said he was delighted to be able to experience the sights and sounds of a city he had a bad impression of.
He said close interactions with locals including activists, educators and artists helped him explore a true picture of people’s desire for peace, hospitality and diverse lifestyles.
Michael Johnson says trip to Peshawar changed his view of the city
“A life filled with vast horizons and a warm welcome to guests and tourists. This really took me by surprise because it was completely opposite to the image portrayed internationally. With all my whims and fears, I was determined to visit The city of Peshawar and its residents, seeing it for what it is. Not only did I see it, but I also enjoyed interacting with this beautiful face,” Johnson said.
He said that all cafes and restaurants in the city were closed due to Ramadan, but locals opened their hearts and served him lunch, demonstrating their traditional hospitality and due respect for their guests.
“This reminds me of a quote from Gandhi Ji, who traveled to the pre-partition Parajanar tribal area of India during Ramadan, where the locals still served a traditional lunch to their distinguished guests. I saw this girl here They all go to school and even the transgender community is respected, while the Christian, Sikh and Hindu communities live in the same city,” the tourist said.
Mr Johnson also visited the offices of local organization Mafkoora and met its chief executive Hayat Roghani and other staff. “I didn’t expect to have a place like this in Peshawar with young volunteers working to promote peace and cultural diversity. I was really surprised,” he said.
Professor Samiuddin Arman, Executive Member of Mafkoora, also presented the latest monthly Pashto children’s magazine “Rana Barn” and a profile of Bacha Khan to the guests. He then visited different areas of Mafkula, the city’s heritage sites and markets.
Mr Johnson said: “My visit will always remain in my memory as it helped me explore the warmth of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, whose hospitality is imbued with respect, love and respect for diversity. and enthusiasm.”
Published at dawn on April 5, 2024
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