Islamabad: The Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan, Ms. Rita Dhital, met with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, on Wednesday to explore ways to enhance bilateral cultural cooperation. The discussions focused on strengthening ties in culture, heritage, and people-to-people engagement.

According to Press Information Department, the Federal Minister emphasized the significance of fostering people-to-people contacts as a fundamental aspect of diplomatic relations. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between cultural institutions in the fields of music, arts, artifacts, and other cultural initiatives. The Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to cultural ties with Nepal, emphasizing the role of such partnerships in preserving shared heritage and advancing mutual understanding.

The Minister also discussed Pakistan’s efforts to promote its Buddhist heritage as part of a broader policy to encourage religious tourism. He invited the Ambassador to visit the Department of Archaeology and Museums, which serves as a hub for cultural artifacts related to Buddhist heritage.

Ambassador Dhital acknowledged the longstanding relationship between Nepal and Pakistan, built on mutual respect and cooperation. She highlighted growth in bilateral engagement across trade, education, and cultural exchanges. She commended Pakistan’s efforts in the promotion and conservation of culture and Buddhist heritage, recalling milestones in bilateral cultural cooperation, including a Cultural Agreement from 1970 and a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding facilitating literary exchanges.

The Ambassador extended an invitation to the Federal Minister to attend the International Vesak Day event at Taxila Museum, jointly organized by the embassies of several countries. Activities will include the participation of monks from Thailand and Sri Lanka, the ringing of a peace bell, and other symbolic acts promoting peace and unity.

The Federal Minister welcomed the initiative and reiterated support for international cultural cooperation. He invited Nepal’s cultural troupes to visit Pakistan as part of efforts to foster cultural exchange. The meeting was attended by various officials, including Pakistan’s Parliamentary Secretary Ms. Farah Naz Akbar and Nepal’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr. Purushottam Dhungel.