Islamabad: UNESCO Representative in Pakistan, Mr. Fuad Pashayev, along with Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, visited the historic Pharwala Fort, Mai Qamro Mosque, and the Tomb of Sultan Muqarrab Khan on Tuesday, highlighting Pakistan’s efforts in preserving these significant cultural sites.

According to Press Information Department, Secretary National Heritage and Culture Asad Rehman Gilani also accompanied the UNESCO delegation during the visit. Officials from the Department of Archaeology and Museums briefed the UNESCO Representative on the historical, archaeological, and cultural significance of the sites, as well as the ongoing conservation and preservation work. Mr. Pashayev planted a tree at Pharwala Fort, symbolizing the importance of environmental conservation alongside cultural heritage preservation.

Mr. Pashayev praised the National Heritage and Culture Division’s efforts under Minister Khichi’s leadership for promoting Pakistan’s cultural legacy and the historic Gakhar tribe. The sites visited are included in Pakistan’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, and Mr. Pashayev expressed satisfaction with the conservation efforts in the Islamabad Capital Territory.

Minister Khichi expressed satisfaction with the Department of Archaeology and Museums’ work and emphasized the government’s commitment to preserving Pakistan’s rich heritage for future generations. He announced the upcoming inauguration of Shah Allah Ditta Caves in October, aiming to enhance cultural tourism. The conservation efforts are expected to boost both domestic and international tourism, with improvements made to visitor facilities at the heritage sites.

Mr. Pashayev appreciated Pakistan’s dedication to safeguarding its cultural heritage, underscoring the importance of protecting historical sites for future generations. The visit highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the National Heritage and Culture Division, the Department of Archaeology and Museums, and UNESCO in promoting and preserving Pakistan’s cultural heritage on an international platform.