LAHORE: Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari visited the residence of stage actor Lucky Dear and presented him a cheque for Rs2.5m as financial aid.

She also presented him a bouquet on behalf of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Culture Shazia Rizwan and Punjab Arts Council Director Muhammad Tanveer Majid were also present.Speaking on the occasion, Ms Bokhari said artistes were valuable assets as they recognised Pakistan worldwide.

`The theatres of Punjab have a unique cultural identity and our mission is to transform them into true family entertainment venues,` she said.

The minister also conducted a surprise visit to Mehfil and Naz theatres and inspected the backstage areas, cleanliness standards, and artists` dressingrooms.Duringher visit, she met with stage actors,listenedtotheirconcerns and assured them of the government`s support.