International conference: Discussion on archaeological discoveries on May 13

Comprehensive policy implemented to introduce legislation to protect heritage

PESHAWAR: A three-day international conference titled ‘Recent Discoveries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and their impact on the history of the region’ will be held from May 13 to 15 at a hotel in Islamabad. The event is being organised under the patronage of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government and Directorate of Archaeology and Museums.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Directorate of Archaeology and Museums Director Dr Abdul Samad said the aim of the conference is to discuss recent discoveries from archaeological excavations in the province.

Modus operandi

Samad said over 70 research papers will be presented at the conference. Besides archaeologists, researchers and students from different universities, federal and provincial departments of archaeology across the country, foreign delegations from US, UK, Germany, Italy, Korea and Afghanistan have been invited to participate.

He added the conference will present new archaeological findings and examine them in the light of ancient scroll records, the Scriptures and other historical sources.

“Our rich archaeological heritage and culture will be highlighted during the event and special place will be given to emerging scholars – more than ten PhD and MPhil scholars and newly-appointed archaeologists of K-P will be accommodated,” he added.

Ambassador of Republic of Korea to Pakistan Jong Hwan Song, British Council Director in Islamabad Kevin McLavel and Minister for Sports, Culture, Archaeology, Museums and Youth Affairs Mehmood Khan will address the inaugural session of the international event where Chief Minister Pervez Khattak will appear as chief guest at the closing ceremony of the conference.

Meeting goals

Mehmood Khan said a comprehensive policy has been implemented to introduce a legislative framework. Guidance of professionals working towards preserving cultural heritage in the province is being sought and various methods of scientific conservation are also being adopted.

“The conference will provide an opportunity to chalk out a plan to preserve and conserve archaeological sites across the province,” he said. “The K-P government is eager to promote the province’s rich archaeological heritage and culture.”

Published in The Express Tribune, May 12^th, 2016.