By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY The World Ambassador TWA ______ Lahore: World Bank President Ajay Pal Singh Banga arrived in Khushab, where he was warmly received by Chairman Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Qamar Zaman. Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, district officers, and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.

During the visit, Ajay Pal Singh Banga toured his ancestral home located in Khushab’s main bazaar, where he was shown revenue records related to his family background. The World Bank President also paid his respects at Gurdwara Singh Sabha Khushab, administered by the Evacuee Trust Property Board, and appreciated the renovation work, administrative arrangements, and facilities provided at the gurdwara.

Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq briefed the World Bank President in detail on the measures taken for the protection, restoration, and management of Sikh religious heritage. On this occasion, Chairman ETPB Qamar Zaman presented special souvenirs to Ajay Pal Singh Banga.

Ajay Pal Singh Banga praised Pakistan’s efforts to promote religious freedom and interfaith harmony, stating that the country is playing a positive and responsible role in safeguarding the religious heritage of minority communities.

Chairman ETPB Qamar Zaman said that the Board is implementing international standards for the preservation of religious heritage and ensuring exemplary hospitality and religious facilities for Sikh pilgrims. He also termed the security arrangements made by the district administration and law enforcement agencies as effective and exemplary.

According to the Chairman, the visit of the World Bank President has further highlighted Pakistan’s positive image at the international level, strengthening goodwill and trust for the country within the global community.