ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed a distinguished delegation of Buddhist leaders who called on him at Prime Minister House on Wednesday.
The delegation is visiting Pakistan to participate in a symposium and exhibition titled “From Gandhara to the World,” organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Sri Lanka’s Minister for Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Honorable Vidura Wikramanayaka, Most Venerable Thich Duc Tuan from Vietnam, Most Venerable Anil Sakya from Thailand, and Dr. Keshabman Shakya from Nepal were included in the meeting.
Expressing gratitude for their participation in the symposium, which commemorates Vesak Day, the Prime Minister underscored Pakistan’s rich Buddhist heritage, particularly the ancient Gandhara art and culture that thrived over two millennia ago.
He emphasized his government’s commitment to interfaith harmony and acknowledged the significant role of Buddhist scholars and monks in promoting understanding among different faiths.
In turn, the Buddhist leaders praised the Prime Minister’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and respect for all religions. They lauded Pakistan’s efforts to preserve and showcase its Buddhist heritage sites and cultural artefacts, expressing eagerness to collaborate further in this regard.
The meeting delved into strengthening interfaith dialogue and cooperation, as well as enhancing cultural and academic exchanges between Pakistan and Buddhist-majority nations. Both sides affirmed their commitment to mutual understanding and cooperation, with discussions touching upon the potential establishment of a joint forum for dialogue and collaboration.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Minister of Information & Broadcasting and Cultural Heritage Ataullah Tarar, and SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi.
