Ambassador of Thailand to Pakistan, Mr. Rongvudhi Virabutr, along with renowned monk Most Venerable Anil Sakiya, called on Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, on Thursday at his office.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to enhance collaboration for the preservation, promotion, and showcasing of Pakistan’s precious Buddhist civilization and heritage sites.
Speaking on the occasion, Most Venerable Anil Sakiya said that Pakistan holds a special place in the hearts of Buddhist communities, describing it as a “second home” due to its deep historical and spiritual connection with their ancestors. He urged the government to take concrete steps for the preservation of this ancient civilization.
Highlighting the significance of Taxila in the ancient Gandhara Civilization, he said the city served as a major center of learning during the era of Buddhist civilization and remained a destination of great reverence for people across the region.
Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi informed the delegation that consultations had already been held with provincial governments, and important decisions were made to take necessary measures for the preservation of Gandhara Civilization and its artifacts. He said Pakistan would involve monks and Buddhist experts in preservation efforts, recognizing that this heritage is of global significance.
The Ambassador and the monk observed that Pakistan possesses immense potential for religious tourism, particularly Buddhist tourism, owing to its rich heritage sites spread across the country.
The Federal Minister reaffirmed that Pakistan values its Buddhist heritage and is committed to taking practical steps for its conservation. He further suggested that artifacts related to Buddhism, once excavated, should be placed in the Islamabad Museum to ensure their proper preservation and public display.
Both dignitaries agreed on the importance of establishing a Buddhist Civilization Centre in Islamabad as a dedicated institution for research, education, and cultural exchange.
The Thai delegation also proposed the concept of “Gandhara Diplomacy,” under which Gandhara artifacts could be exhibited in Buddhist-majority countries to promote cultural understanding and strengthen international ties.
Secretary National Heritage and Culture Division, Mr. Asad Rehman Gilani, informed the participants that only 25 percent of Pakistan’s total heritage has been excavated so far, while a large portion remains buried. He emphasized that further excavation would depend on the availability of suitable preservation and display facilities.
It was unanimously agreed that a team of experts would be formed, in consultation with monks and heritage specialists, to identify original artifacts and develop effective strategies for their preservation.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s invaluable Buddhist legacy and promoting it as a bridge of cultural and spiritual connection with the world.
