THE British High Commissioner to Pakistan led the UK’s team in a skiing competition held in the Swat Valley.
Dr Christian Turner and his team from the British High Commission in Pakistan competed alongside a host of international teams.
The Karakoram International Alpine Ski Cup 2020 is held in Malam Jabba in the Swat Valley of the south Asian country.
Turner was welcomed to the event by dignitaries, including the Pakistan president Dr Arif Alvi.
The Winter Sports Federation Pakistan, in collaboration with Pakistan Air Force, organised the event where over 36 international skiers from countries, including the UK, Canada, Greece, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Timor Leste and Turkey took part.
More than 60 Pakistani skiers also participated and competed against international skiers.
The British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner, CMG, said: “In a valley and resort associated with destruction by the Pakistani Taliban, it is fantastic to see the breathtaking scenery and how Pakistan is changing for the better.
“I must congratulate the Pakistan Air Force and the Winter Sports Federation Pakistan for organising such an excellent tournament. I’ve been told I’m the first British High Commissioner to visit the resort in 15 years or so, and I want to continue travelling all around Pakistan as I get to know this wonderful country.”
The High Commissioner arrived in Pakistan in December and has already visited both Lahore and Karachi twice as part of his plan to visit as much of Pakistan as possible.
Bob Blackman MP speaks during the event