Cultural week showcases heritage

ISLAMABAD:

The second day of Tajikistan Cultural Week was celebrated with a vibrant cultural evening at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), Islamabad, highlighting the rich artistic heritage of the Republic of Tajikistan and reinforcing the historical, cultural, and civilizational ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan.

The event was graced by President Asif Ali Zardari as the Chief Guest, reflecting Pakistan's strong commitment to its longstanding, friendly, and brotherly relations with Tajikistan. The ceremony was also attended by Federal Minister for National Heritage & Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Culture & Heritage Huzaifa Rehman, and H.E. Sattoriyon Mattubakhon Amonzod, Minister of Culture of Tajikistan.

Senior officials, diplomats, eminent artists, cultural practitioners, and a distinguished audience, including Federal Secretary Asad Rehman Gilani and PNCA Director General Ayub Jamali, were also present.

The Tajik cultural troupe captivated the audience with traditional folk dances, classical and contemporary music, and soulful songs, offering an authentic showcase of Tajikistan's cultural richness, artistic diversity, and historical legacy. The performances were met with widespread acclaim.

Dignitaries highlighted that initiatives like Tajikistan Cultural Week promote people-to-people connections, mutual respect, and deeper cultural understanding. They emphasised the centuries-old historical, linguistic, and civilizational linkages shared by the two nations, noting that cultural cooperation remains a cornerstone of Pakistan-Tajikistan relations.