An MoU between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on promotion of religious tourism and collaboration in preservation and projection of Gandhara heritage is under discussion.
Pakistan High Commission, Colombo organised a seminar on Gandhara Heritage of Pakistan held at the Nagananda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS) on Wednesday (13), was attended by the former President Mathripala Sirisena, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, MP Imtiaz Bakeer Markar, diplomatic corps, monks, members of All Ceylon Buddhist Council, and a large number of students.
Buddhassasana Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Vidura Wickramanayake was the Chief Guest.
Pakistani High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Maj Gen. Umar Farooq Burki (HI) (M) in his address gave an overview of the friendly ties between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. While stressing the need for frequent people to people contacts between the two countries, the High Commissioner highlighted the immense potential Pakistan possesses in religious and cultural tourism. In this regard he stressed the need for institutional linkages between the two countries.
The Chief Guest appreciated the efforts of the High Commission for apprising the Sri Lankan public on the huge cultural and religious tourism potential of Pakistan, especially its rich Gandhara heritage. The Minister proposed that the two countries should create a Heritage Forum for bilateral exchange of views and experience. Presentations and speeches were made by prominent Sri Lankan scholars as well as two eminent speakers from Pakistan, Director General Archaeology Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province Dr. Abdul Sammad and Director Taxila Museum Iqbal Khan.
Highlights of the seminar included display of books and pamphlets related to Pakistan’s Gandhara heritage, and launch of a documentary on Gandhara heritage of Pakistan.
