ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is intensifying its initiatives to preserve and promote its Buddhist and Gandhara heritage, with plans to enhance facilities for Buddhist pilgrims and visitors, as announced by Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi. The measures include developing a site on Murree Road dedicated to the respectful preservation and display of sacred Buddhist relics.
According to Press Information Department, the minister discussed these initiatives during a meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, H.E. Wunna Han. Plans are underway to transfer significant Buddhist relics from the Peshawar Museum to the National Museum to consolidate access for visitors and bolster religious tourism. The Shah Allah Ditta Caves will soon open to visitors, and Pakistan is preparing to host Gandhara exhibitions in various Buddhist countries to raise awareness of the civilization’s historical significance.
The minister also highlighted a draft Memorandum of Understanding sent to Myanmar’s government to enhance bilateral cooperation. The Myanmar ambassador acknowledged the longstanding ties between the two nations and emphasized the shared historical experiences that connect them. He expressed interest in further promoting Buddhist pilgrimage and religious tourism, suggesting potential charter flights for pilgrims and greater cooperation among Buddhist countries to advance Gandhara heritage.
Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Asad Rahman Gillani, announced plans to invite ambassadors from Buddhist countries to the opening ceremony of the Shah Allah Ditta Caves, underscoring the importance of cultural diplomacy. Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Gandhara, Imran Shokat, added that a special delegation of Buddhist monks is expected to visit Pakistan in November, as part of efforts to strengthen relations with Buddhist countries and promote Gandhara heritage internationally. Both sides agreed on enhancing cultural cooperation and expanding people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and Myanmar.