Speaking at the inauguration, the Head of the Culture Section of the French Embassy Marc Piton said that more than 1,300 restaurants worldwide participate in the festival simultaneously, promoting French cuisine and culture across continents
Ansar M Bhatti
Islamabad: The Good France 2026 Food Festival was inaugurated at Mövenpick Hotel Islamabad, bringing together diplomats, hospitality professionals, media representatives, and members of the community to celebrate French and Pakistani culinary excellence.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, CEO of The Centaurus and Prime Minister Coordinator on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, thanked the media and guests for their support and highlighted the significance of the collaboration between Mövenpick Hotel Islamabad and the French Embassy in Pakistan.
He said that Pakistan’s global image has undergone a positive transformation and that the country is now ready to showcase its true hospitality on the international stage. Referring to upcoming international events and conferences, he emphasized that hospitality plays a crucial role in promoting Pakistan as a welcoming destination for global visitors.
Sardar Yasir noted that the partnership with the French Embassy is particularly important as it enables cultural exchange, talent development, and knowledge sharing through food and cuisine. He praised the expertise being brought by renowned French chefs and said that such collaborations provide valuable learning opportunities for local hospitality professionals.
He stressed that Pakistan possesses immense culinary diversity, with unique flavors and traditions spanning from the south to the north of the country. According to him, international visitors should be given the opportunity to experience both world-class international cuisine and Pakistan’s rich local food culture.
The CEO also highlighted Mövenpick Islamabad’s achievements, including international recognition for excellence in hospitality, corporate services, cuisine, and wellness experiences. He credited these accomplishments to the extensive training and development of local talent to meet global standards.
Discussing future opportunities, Sardar Yasir underscored the importance of tourism, trade, and cultural diplomacy. He said that Pakistan is actively focusing on medical tourism, adventure tourism, and international collaborations to attract travelers and investors.
He said stronger cooperation with France and other nations will promote cultural understanding, talent exchange, and economic growth, while reaffirming that Pakistan is ready to welcome the world and do business on a global scale.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Head of the Culture Section of the French Embassy Marc Piton said that more than 1,300 restaurants worldwide participate in the festival simultaneously, promoting French cuisine and culture across continents. He noted that French gastronomy is recognized on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, highlighting its global cultural significance. Guests were invited to discover and rediscover authentic French cuisine throughout the festival week.
Addressing the gathering, the General Manager of Mövenpick Hotel Islamabad expressed pride in joining the prestigious event. He highlighted that Mövenpick’s roots date back to 1948 in Zurich, where it began as a restaurant dedicated to culinary excellence before expanding into an international hospitality brand.
He said the festival would offer guests a unique French dining experience, featuring specially curated menus, culinary creativity, and the renowned French art de vivre. A special highlight of the week will be a gourmet event accompanied by live jazz music.
