Pakistan's Information and Broadcasting Minister, Attaullah Tarar, has declared that cultural diplomacy is a cornerstone of the country's foreign policy. He emphasized the pivotal role of digital media in public outreach and fostering international understanding. The minister made these remarks during a significant meeting with Tajikistan's Minister of Culture, Ms. Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda, in Islamabad on Saturday.
Deepening Bilateral Ties Through Culture and Digital Platforms
The high-level discussion centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on expanding collaboration in the digital media sphere and building stronger media linkages between the two nations. Minister Tarar congratulated his Tajik counterpart on the successful holding of the Pakistan-Tajikistan Culture Week, an initiative that stemmed from an earlier agreement between Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
He stated that events like the Pakistan–Tajik Cultural Festival are vital platforms for strengthening people-to-people contacts. The minister highlighted the centuries-old historical and cultural ties binding Pakistan and Tajikistan, noting that Islamabad places immense importance on cultural diplomacy as a tool for international engagement.
Shared Heritage and Future Agreements
Minister Tarar pointed to the poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal as a reflection of the intellectual harmony between the peoples of both countries. He added that revered Persian poets are cherished in Pakistan and Tajikistan alike, underscoring a mutual commitment to preserving their shared literary and cultural heritage.
In a forward-looking move, the meeting concluded with an agreement to finalize formal agreements on cultural cooperation. This step is planned ahead of the anticipated visit of Tajik President Emomali Rahmon to Pakistan, signaling a new chapter in bilateral relations.
Tajikistan's Commitment to Continued Partnership
Minister Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda expressed her gratitude for Pakistan's support of the Tajik Festival Week. She affirmed Tajikistan's desire to maintain close cooperation with Islamabad in both cultural exchanges and the digital media sector. She echoed the sentiment that their shared heritage should be showcased to further solidify bilateral ties.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both sides, including Tajikistan's Ambassador Sharifzada Yusuf Toir, Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam, Information Secretary Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil, and directors general from Pakistan's media wings.
