Pakistan government after having overcome the scourge of extremism and terrorism, which had obscured the richness and diversity of its culture and heritage, was now making strenuous efforts to project it at the global level and in this regard the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting was contemplating to hold a national convention of artists with a view to reaching out to them and soliciting their proposals. This was stated by minister of state for Information, Broadcasting and national Heritage while talking to the French Ambassador Ms. Martine Dorance, who called on her here today.
Welcoming the Ambassador in the Ministry, the Minister of State said that Pakistan highly valued its relations with France and would like to further enhance cooperation between the two countries in the fields of art, culture, information and preservation of heritage. She said that in view the culture being the most stupendous force in regards to developing a constructive mindset and building a better, healthier and peaceful society, the Government of Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif was working with an unruffled commitment to project the Pakistani culture.
The MOS informed the Ambassador that Pakistan was also going to launch its first film, and broadcast production policy, as films had a proven potential to educate people and reinforce the cultural values through their extensive outreach. Marriyum Aurangzeb sought cooperation of the French Government in providing technical assistance so that Pakistani films and arts could be developed in accordance with the best international practices. The minister further informed the distinguished guest that PNCA an attached department of the Ministry of IB&NH was going to organize a film festival in connection with 70th Year Independence celebrations and Pakistan would welcome active French participation in the event.
During the meeting, the Ambassador informed the Minister of State that two Pakistani-born French citizens, the Wahid brothers, who were now rising stars of French cuisine were visiting Pakistan for the first time since they left their motherland. Sylvestre Wahid and Jonathan Wahid were born in Kohat, Pakistan, are now accomplished chefs who are enjoying an iconic status in France, the Ambassador said. She suggested that their visit should be utilized in a manner that it goes to showcase the contribution of the people of Pakistani origin to the French culture as well as their acknowledgement by the government and people of France. The Ambassador also requested the MOS to facilitate their courtesy meetings with Prime Minister and President of Pakistan, if possible, during their visit this week.
Ambassador Martine Dorance also informed the Minister of State that a seminar was being arranged in October-November in Paris this year to encourage cooperation among various nations in the fields of archeology and heritage. French Government would feel delighted to host young archeologist from Pakistan who are keen to work towards the preservation of world heritage, she said.
The Minister of State assured her full cooperation in highlighting the visit of Wahid brothers and seeking their appointments with the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan. She said that culture was a great voice that Pakistan needed to resonate throughout the world. She said that Pakistan would do its best to promote and project the success stories of the two great sons of the soil who emerged as shining stars in the foreign land.
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