President Dr Arif Alvi expressed on Tuesday that Pakistan serves as a valuable gateway to the Gandhara civilization, offering the world a unique insight into its ancient history and the profound message of peace and compassion espoused by Buddha. In an event attended by monks and inter-faith experts from various countries, the objective was to explore Pakistan’s rich Buddhist heritage and create an environment conducive to Gandhara tourism.
“In today’s world where hatred is on the rise and increasing polarization is fueling conflicts, it’s time to rediscover the role of cultural diplomacy to promote dialogue among civilizations,” he said in his address here at the three-day Gandhara Symposium 2023.
President Alvi emphasized that Buddha’s teachings ignite a spirit of introspection, promoting non-violence and the protection of the environment. He highlighted the significance of the Gandhara civilization, which flourished in Pakistan centuries ago, as an informative destination for global visitors to explore its remarkable Buddhist sites.
Calling for collaborative efforts, President Alvi urged the promotion of awareness regarding the inclusive and multicultural nature of the Gandhara civilization, facilitating the absorption of diverse cultures within society. He warmly welcomed the presence of Buddhist monks in Pakistan, expressing hope that their visit would symbolize a message of peace and cross-cultural harmony.
Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, Minister of State and Chairman of the PM Task Force on Gandhara Tourism, affirmed that the allure of the Gandhara civilization continues to captivate individuals from around the world. He emphasized the imperative of preserving and revitalizing the historic Buddhist relics, recognizing their cultural and historical significance.
The symposium titled ‘Cultural Diplomacy: Reviving Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist Heritage in Pakistan’ was organized by Prime Minister’s Task Force on Gandhara Tourism, Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), and the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The event gathered monks and inter-faith experts from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, China, Malaysia, South Korea and Vietnam with an objective to explore Pakistan’s rich Buddhist legacy and create an enabling environment for Gandhara tourism.
