Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi attended and addressed the International Vesak Day 2026 celebrations held at the historic Taxila Museum as chief guest, reaffirming Pakistan\u2019s commitment to preserving and promoting its Buddhist and Gandhara heritage.<\/p>\n
The event, titled \u201cA Confluence of Faith, Culture, and Shared Heritage,\u201d brought together diplomats, Buddhist monks, scholars and delegates from several countries, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Japan and Vietnam. The gathering was organized with the support of the Government of Punjab and foreign missions in Pakistan.<\/p>\n
The ceremony highlighted Pakistan\u2019s role as custodian of one of the world\u2019s most significant Buddhist civilizations. Documentaries were screened showcasing the history of Buddhism, archaeological discoveries, and ongoing efforts to preserve Buddhist artifacts across Pakistan. A special documentary on Lumbini, presented by the Embassy of Nepal, received appreciation from participants.<\/p>\n
In his address, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana of Gautama Buddha, reflecting universal values of peace, compassion, tolerance and wisdom. He said Taxila and Gandhara remain central to Buddhist history and continue to serve as symbols of spiritual heritage and cultural dialogue.<\/p>\n
He noted that during Emperor Ashoka\u2019s era, Buddhism flourished in the region, leading to the establishment of monasteries, stupas and centers of learning, along with the development of the globally recognized Gandhara art tradition.<\/p>\n
The minister said Pakistan takes pride in inheriting this rich legacy and is committed to its preservation, protection and international promotion. He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve conservation practices, strengthen site management, and promote sustainable cultural tourism for pilgrims and international visitors.<\/p>\n
He also acknowledged the contributions of international scholars, development partners and cultural institutions in research and conservation of Buddhist heritage in Pakistan.<\/p>\n
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Provincial Minister for Culture Marriyum Aurangzeb were commended for their efforts in preserving Gandhara civilization, while the Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department Punjab was praised for organizing the event.<\/p>\n
Religious leaders and diplomats from Buddhist countries lauded Pakistan\u2019s initiatives. Venerable monks from Thailand and Sri Lanka described the occasion as a significant milestone in promoting Buddhist heritage and cultural understanding, while appreciating Pakistan\u2019s hospitality and conservation efforts.<\/p>\n
Speakers including representatives of the Gandhara heritage promotion initiative emphasized the importance of safeguarding archaeological artifacts and strengthening Pakistan\u2019s cultural tourism strategy.<\/p>\n
Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora said the government is taking practical steps to preserve heritage sites linked to Gandhara civilization alongside efforts to protect minority rights.<\/p>\n
The event concluded with tree plantation, exchange of souvenirs, and a renewed commitment to cultural diplomacy, interfaith harmony and the global promotion of Pakistan\u2019s Buddhist heritage.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi attended and addressed the International Vesak Day 2026 celebrations held at the historic Taxila Museum as chief guest, reaffirming Pakistan\u2019s commitment to preserving and promoting its Buddhist and Gandhara heritage. The event, titled \u201cA Confluence of Faith, Culture, and Shared Heritage,\u201d brought together diplomats, Buddhist […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":74180,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[30,16],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[213],"class_list":{"0":"post-74179","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-latest","8":"category-pakistan"},"yoast_head":"\n