Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, attended and addressed the International Vesak Day 2026 – "A Confluence of Faith, Culture, and Shared Heritage" at the historic Taxila Museum as Chief Guest, reaffirming Pakistan’s strong commitment to preserving and promoting its rich Buddhist and Gandhara heritage.
The event brought together distinguished diplomats, venerable monks, scholars, and visitors from Buddhist countries, particularly Thailand and Sri Lanka. Organized with the cooperation of the Government of Punjab, the Embassies of Nepal, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Sri Lanka in Pakistan, the gathering highlighted Pakistan’s role as a custodian of one of the world’s most significant Buddhist legacies.
The ceremony featured documentaries showcasing the history of Buddhism, archaeological discoveries, restoration of artifacts, and the preservation of Buddhist heritage in museums across Pakistan. The Embassy of Nepal also presented a documentary on Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, which received wide appreciation from participants.
Addressing the gathering, Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi stated that Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana of Gautama Buddha, representing timeless values of peace, compassion, tolerance, and wisdom. He emphasized that Taxila and Gandhara hold a revered place in Buddhist history and remain symbols of cultural dialogue and spiritual heritage.
He noted that under Emperor Ashoka’s patronage, Buddhism flourished in the region for centuries, leading to the establishment of monasteries, stupas, and centers of learning, as well as the emergence of the globally renowned Gandhara Art tradition.
The Minister said Pakistan is proud to be the inheritor of this magnificent legacy and remains firmly committed to its preservation, protection, and global promotion. He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen conservation practices, improve site management, and promote sustainable cultural tourism to facilitate pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
He also acknowledged the contributions of international scholars, institutions, and development partners in research and conservation of Buddhist heritage in Pakistan.
Mr. Khichi commended Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Senior Minister for Cultural Affairs Marriyum Aurangzeb for their dedication to preserving the centuries-old Gandhara Civilization. He also appreciated the Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department Punjab for organizing the event, while recognizing the coordination efforts of Syed Usman Tahir, Advisor to the Federal Minister.
Most Venerable Anil Sakiya of Thailand described the occasion as a landmark event celebrating the history of the Buddhist world and praised Pakistan’s contributions to preserving Buddhist heritage.
Most Venerable Thebo of Sri Lanka highlighted the peaceful and compassionate teachings of Buddhism and praised the hospitality of the people of Pakistan, while encouraging the continuation of such events to strengthen ties with Buddhist countries.
Imran Shaukat, Ambassador for the Promotion of Gandhara Heritage, emphasized Pakistan’s strategy to uplift Gandhara Civilization and safeguard Buddhist artifacts for future generations.
Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, stated that under the leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, concrete steps are being taken to preserve heritage sites, especially those linked to Gandhara Civilization, while also safeguarding minority rights.
In his concluding remarks, the Sri Lankan Ambassador described the occasion as a reminder of the importance of international cultural collaboration and world peace.
Earlier, the Federal Minister Khichi and ambassadors sapling the trees in the Museum.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi presented souvenirs to the Ambassador of Japan and other ambassadors, distinguished monks, officials, and representatives from participating countries and institutions.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to cultural diplomacy, interfaith harmony, and the global promotion of Pakistan’s invaluable Buddhist heritage.
