Islamabad: Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division Aurangzeb Khan Khichi on Tuesday affirmed Pakistan’s dedication to safeguarding its significant Buddhist heritage, underscoring its role as a custodian of the Gandhara civilization. He highlighted efforts to preserve these cultural treasures for future generations.

According to Press Information Department, Khichi addressed the 3rd International Conference on the Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan, held at the Taxila Institute of Archaeology and Civilizations, Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad. He praised the event as a critical platform for intercultural dialogue and scholarly cooperation, organized by the Humanistic Buddhism Research Centre at QAU and partner institutions.

The Minister outlined the Gandhara civilization’s historical importance, noting its contributions to Buddhist learning and its fusion of South Asian and Hellenistic traditions. He detailed government initiatives led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, which include conservation projects, archaeological research, and international collaborations to promote and preserve the heritage.

Khichi also emphasized Pakistan’s cooperation with global organizations and academic entities to ensure the protection of these sites. He remarked on the conference’s role in fostering research, dialogue, and international cooperation, highlighting Pakistan’s cultural diversity and respect for religious pluralism.

The five-day conference, from May 19 to 23, 2026, is organized by the Humanistic Buddhism Research Centre at QAU, with contributions from national and international partners. It gathers scholars, faith leaders, and conservation experts to discuss and explore Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage. Participants, including international delegates, are also visiting key Buddhist sites in the Gandhara region.

The organizers recognized the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture Division’s support for this and previous conferences, acknowledging its role in promoting Pakistan’s cultural heritage globally. The Minister also toured the newly opened library and center on Gandhara Heritage and Civilization, commending the efforts of QAU and its partners.