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DUBAI : The president of Paraguay, Santiago Pena, and Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile, opened the FIA American Congress 2025 in Asuncion, a milestone for South American motorsport.

The congress is a flagship event on the FIA calendar, bringing together delegates from 33 countries across the Americas. The FIA is the global governing body for motorsport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide.

Ben Sulayem said: “The American Congress is the embodiment of what the FIA stands for, a globally connected federation, leading the way in motorsport and mobility. We are elevating and innovating across our sectors and bringing together a passionate community to share knowledge and ideas.

“Here in Paraguay, and across the Americas, mobility and motorsport are evolving rapidly. Major infrastructure projects are connecting regions and boosting trade, and this week marks a historic milestone for South American motorsport with the Rally del Paraguay joining the FIA WRC calendar for the very first time.   

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the president of the Republic of Paraguay, Mr. Santiago Pena, for joining us on this special occasion, our hosts the Touring y Automovil Club Paraguayo, and the city of Asuncion for their warm hospitality.”

Pena said: “We are no longer the best hidden treasure of the continent, but a giant that is re-emerging with full force: people proud of their roots, its heroic history and convinced of its inevitable future of greatness.

“Over the next few days, you will be able to experience the legendary hospitality of Paraguay, a country full of caring people.”

Spanning three days and hosted by the Touring y Automovil Club Paraguayo, the congress is focused on key themes including road safety and education, innovation in mobility and automotive technology, and the continued growth of motorsport in the region.

The congress precedes the inaugural FIA WRC Rally del Paraguay, to be attended by Pena and Ben Sulayem, in Itapua from Aug. 28-31.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani artist Sadequain’s work is being showcased at an exhibition titled “The Holy Sinner” in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from Aug. 26 to 31, state media reported this week.

Widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s most celebrated painters, calligraphers and muralists, Sadequain, who died in 1987, was known for his bold murals, intricate calligraphy and evocative portrayals of spiritual and existential themes.

He produced some of the country’s most iconic public artworks, including large-scale murals in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad, and is credited with revitalizing Islamic calligraphy by blending classical tradition with modernist expression.

“A distinctive exhibition featuring the works of Pakistan’s legendary artist Sadequain has kicked off at the Noor Royal Gallery in Jumeirah 2, Dubai,” the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) said in a report on Tuesday.

“According to a press release, the exhibition is a tribute to the artist’s unique blend of spiritual themes and modern artistic expression.”

The report quoted the Noor Royal Gallery as describing the exhibition as “a homage to Sadequain’s genius,” offering art enthusiasts, collectors and scholars in the UAE to engage with his legacy.

Sadequain’s works have fetched high prices in the international art market.

According to Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper, his 1968 painting “Crucifixion” sold for a record £118,750 (Rs16 million) at a 2017 auction in London.