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Pakistan will participate in the prestigious Miss World pageant for the first time in its more than seven-decade history, with Anika Meraj set to represent the country at the 75th edition of the global beauty competition.
The pageant will be held in Vietnam from August 9 to September 5, where contestants from around the world will compete for the coveted title.
Anika secured the opportunity after being crowned Miss World Pakistan 2026 at a gala ceremony held at Lahore’s historic Faletti’s Hotel. The crown was presented by Dr Shafaq Akhtar, Miss Pakistan Universal 2022, and Attaullah Gujjar, Mr Pakistan World.
The 24-year-old beauty queen holds a bachelor’s degree in business and economics and is currently pursuing postgraduate studies in auditing and accounting.
According to her profile on the official Miss World website, Anika aspires to become a certified public accountant while advocating for children’s rights and promoting girls’ education.
She is no stranger to international pageantry, having previously represented Pakistan at Miss Earth, Miss Global, Miss Cosmo, Miss Eco International and Miss Aura International. She also won four titles at the Freedom of the World competition held in Kosovo.
Bangladesh will be represented at this year’s Miss World pageant by Samanjar Saeed.
The participation of Anika marks a historic milestone for Pakistan, while South Asian contestants, including Bangladesh’s Samanjar Saeed, will be aiming to make a strong impression on the global stage.
