Europe comes to Pakistan through cinema

A Romanian feature film and a wider slate of European cinema brought new attention to Pakistan’s growing cultural engagement with Europe, highlighting the potential of storytelling as a bridge between nations.

The screenings, part of the fourth European Film Festival (EUFF) and supported by the Pakistan Romania Business Council (PRBC), offered audiences in Karachi and other cities a window into different European stories, experiences and perspectives. At the Karachi Film School, a Romanian film elicited an enthusiastic response from the audience. Set during the country’s political transition in 1989, ‘The New Year That Never Came’ gives audiences a glimpse into the social and political upheaval.

Organized jointly by the Romanian Embassy, ​​the Romanian Cultural Institute, the Romanian Language Institute, the National Archives of Romania, the PRBC and the Pakistan-Romania Friendship Association, the screening highlighted how cultural initiatives complement diplomatic and economic ties.

PRBC advisor Atif Faruqi said the film helped viewers understand Romania’s history and highlighted how cultural activities promote dialogue while supporting long-term cooperation between countries. The screening in Karachi marked one of many activities reflecting the six-decade relationship between Pakistan and Romania. The event showed how cinema can illuminate national narratives by building bridges between audiences in different countries.

The screening in Karachi was part of the larger European Film Festival, which runs from November 7 to 23 in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. Hosted by the Delegation of the European Union to Pakistan and curated by Olomopolo Media, the festival screens 19 feature films and 10 short films.

Interactive installations, live performances and art activities are also designed to immerse the audience in the creative process. The festival is free and open to the public, attracting families, students, artists, diplomats and film buffs.

The Karachi leg unfolded on November 15 and 16 at the Karachi Film School, where screenings were complemented by readings, social dances and interactive performances.

Attendees experienced a vibrant fusion of European storytelling and local cultural energy, with each evening culminating in a celebration of art, music and social connection. The Lahore leg, scheduled for November 22 and 23 at the Alhamra Arts Council, will feature a similar mix of films, installations and interactive spaces, including dramatic readings and social dances, reflecting the city’s long-standing passion for the arts.

In all three cities, EUFF 2025 transformed spaces into hubs of creativity, incorporating exhibits such as the ‘Wall of Fame’, ‘Auteur Ego’, ‘Human Slot Game’ and 360° camera experiences.

Complementary spaces such as The Reading Nook and Kids’ Corner encouraged reflection and engagement, while food booths, photo booths and outdoor lounges contributed to a festival atmosphere that extended beyond traditional cinema traffic.

Events such as the Romanian screening and the wider festival programs show how cinema can act as a bridge between nations. By offering Pakistani audiences access to international narratives, the festival supports long-term cultural, educational and diplomatic cooperation.

PRBC representatives noted that such initiatives complement bilateral ties, creating opportunities for dialogue and mutual learning while strengthening connections between Pakistan and Europe, particularly Romania.

As EUFF 2025 continues, organizers hope the momentum from the festival will inspire further collaboration, foster an appreciation for world cinema and foster cultural understanding that transcends borders.