In a landmark initiative to promote shared heritage and cultural diplomacy, Pakistan and Tajikistan are set to jointly celebrate the “Week of Tajikistan Culture” in Islamabad. The upcoming week-long festival, being organized by the Ministries of Culture of both countries in collaboration with the Embassy of Tajikistan, Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), and Lok Virsa, aims to further strengthen the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between the two brotherly nations.
The event will feature a series of vibrant activities including a traditional cultural showcase, an art exhibition titled “Land of Mountains and Poets,” a fusion music and dance night, a Tajik film festival, live handicrafts demonstrations, a culinary festival introducing authentic Tajik cuisine, and a literary forum. The celebrations will have a grand night gala in Lahore Shahi Fort expected to open new avenues for cultural cooperation and exchange.
In this regard, Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan, Sharifzoda Yusuf Toirali, called on Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, on Friday to discuss preparations for the upcoming festival. During the meeting, the ambassador proposed organizing an additional night gala in Lahore to revive memories of the Mughal era, emphasizing that both nations share centuries-old cultural and linguistic similarities.
He noted that Tajik artists, musicians, and dancers are eager to collaborate with their Pakistani counterparts and share traditional skills, including the art of Tajik hand embroidery. “We are also launching two films based on our history, culture, and classical poetry,” the ambassador added, highlighting that Tajik people draw great inspiration from the poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
Ambassador Sharifzoda expressed his intent to invite Pakistan’s mainstream leadership, including the Chief Minister of Punjab, to attend the Lahore gala and the Islamabad festival. He also offered full support to Pakistan in initiatives related to the revival of shared Mughal-era heritage, art, and music.
Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi welcomed the proposal, stating that cultural cooperation between Pakistan and Tajikistan would further strengthen people-to-people ties. “It is my pleasure to work together in promoting joint cultural events that reflect our shared history and values,” the minister said. He added that final dates for the cultural week will be announced soon after the conclusion of Lok Mela 2025.
Later, Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Mr. Assad Rehman Gillani, gave a detailed briefing to the Tajik ambassador regarding the festival’s proposed venues, schedule, and arrangements.
The Week of Tajikistan Culture promises to be a vivid celebration of art, friendship, and heritage symbolizing a renewed commitment by Pakistan and Tajikistan to strengthen their cultural and historical bonds, he added.
