Need to preserve our rich archaeological heritage

Islamabad: Amna Baloch, Foreign Secretary, has reaffirmed commitment to preserving and promoting Pakistan’s rich archaeological and civilisational heritage.

Ms Baloch was addressing 1-day International Conference on “Celebrating Pakistan’s ancient arch­ae­ological and civilisational heritage” organised here by ISS. Ms Baloch expressed her deep pride in the country's rich and multi-layered legacy. She highlighted how the ancient civilisations of the Indus Valley and Gandhara, which flourished in present-day Pakistan, continue to inspire modern society. She emphasised the importance of preserving heritage noting that the values of innovation, resilience and coexistence seen in these ancient cultures remain relevant today. She called for a balanced approach to conservation, tourism and development, ensuring that Pakistan’s cultural assets are safeguarded for future generations.

Prof Ruth Young, University of Leicester, UK, underscored the importance of religious sites, especially Buddhist sites, in shaping Pakistan’s identity. She acknowledged the government's efforts to use heritage to enhance Pakistan's global image. Prof Hridaya Bajracharya, former Vice-Chancellor, Lumbini Buddhist University, Nepal, highlighted the shared heritage between Nepal and Pakistan’s Gandhara civilisation, stressing the importance of celebrating Gandhara’s cultural influence and its potential to foster shared narratives. Iftikhar H Malik, Professor Emeritus, Bath Spa University,

said that Pakistan’s history extends far beyond 1947 with a rich ancient past.