Islamabad:Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Tuesday agreed to expand cultural cooperation, with a particular emphasis on heritage promotion, the arts and religious tourism.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between national heritage and culture minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi and Sri Lankan ambassador Rear Admiral (r) Fred Seneviratne at the ministry here.Discussions centred on jointly promoting the rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions and historical legacy of both countries.
Both sides underscored the need to organise joint cultural exhibitions, art showcases and heritage programmes to provide platforms for artists, artisans and cultural institutions from Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Minister Khichi reaffirmed the Pakistani government’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, noting that the prime minister is keen to promote joint cultural initiatives with Sri Lanka and other friendly nations.
He said the Pakistan High Commission in Sri Lanka would be directed to facilitate the display of Pakistani architectural models and cultural exhibits.Highlighting Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage, the minister said the Gandhara civilisation and its archaeological sites offered significant potential for religious tourism.
He noted that people-to-people engagement through religious tourism could serve as a powerful channel for cultural exchange, adding that reputable tour operators from both countries would be engaged to arrange specialised religious and cultural tours.The Sri Lankan ambassador welcomed the initiative and expressed particular interest in the architectural and cultural artefacts housed in Pakistani museums, especially in Taxila and Lahore.
Natural heritage secretary Asad Rehman Gilani, who was also in attendance, said that virtual tours of major Buddhist heritage sites in Pakistan were already available, enabling international audiences to explore the country’s cultural legacy online.
Both sides agreed that cultural diplomacy was vital for strengthening mutual understanding, enhancing people-to-people contacts and further cementing the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and pledged close coordination in organising joint cultural events and exhibitions in both countries.
