Islamabad : The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a One-Day International Conference titled “Celebrating Pakistan’s Ancient Archaeological and Civilisational Heritage” in Islambad. The event, which featured a range of distinguished speakers, aimed to showcase Pakistan’s rich historical and cultural legacy, emphasizing its importance for both national identity and international recognition.
In the Inaugural Session, Secretary of National Heritage & Culture Division, Hassan Nasir Jamy, delivered remarks as the Guest of Honour, while Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, offered welcome remarks. Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of the China Pakistan Study Centre at ISSI, introduced the conference’s objectives. Senator Mushahid Hussain, serving as the Chief Guest, emphasized the significance of history and heritage as integral to national strength and security, calling for a broader definition of national security that includes cultural heritage.
Senator Mushahid Hussain further underscored the untapped potential of Pakistan’s rich heritage in promoting tourism. He highlighted the Kartarpur Corridor as a model of soft cultural diplomacy, promoting interfaith harmony and attracting international visitors. He recommended a multi-faceted strategy to enhance tourism, including robust marketing, the development of key infrastructure, and the promotion of religious and adventure tourism, all of which would bolster Pakistan’s image globally.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood focused on Pakistan’s millennia-old heritage, particularly the Indus Valley and Buddhist Gandhara civilizations, which have shaped the country’s unique identity. He stressed the need for a coordinated national effort to preserve and promote archaeological sites, highlighting the importance of partnerships with international bodies like UNESCO. Mahmood also called for a comprehensive media campaign to project Pakistan’s cultural wealth as a cornerstone of its soft power on the world stage.
Dr. Talat Shabbir emphasized the significance of Pakistan’s ancient civilizations, including Mohenjo-Daro and Taxila, as symbols of national identity. He stressed the need to preserve these sites not only for their historical value but also for their role in fostering global peace and understanding. He urged historians and archaeologists to take collective responsibility in safeguarding Pakistan’s cultural assets for future generations.
Hassan Nasir Jamy, Secretary of National Heritage and Cultural Division, highlighted the advanced urban planning and trade networks of the Indus Valley Civilization, positioning it as one of the world’s most remarkable ancient societies. He called for leveraging Pakistan’s rich cultural history to boost cultural diplomacy, economic growth, and tourism. Jamy also emphasized the role of the government in preserving these sites through infrastructure development and international collaborations.
The conference aimed to develop a sustainable approach to heritage preservation and tourism, advocating for the empowerment of local communities and promoting cultural exchanges. Experts from Pakistan and abroad presented strategies to ensure the upkeep of archaeological sites and enhance their visibility on the global stage, positioning Pakistan as a premier destination for heritage tourism.
The conference reinforced the critical role that Pakistan’s cultural heritage plays in strengthening national identity and global diplomacy. By preserving and promoting its ancient civilizations, Pakistan can not only enhance its soft power but also create economic opportunities and strengthen ties with the international community.
