Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi Thursday said that the success of Marka-e-Haq reflects national unity, patriotism, and the strong bond between the people and the Armed Forces of Pakistan. He congratulated the entire nation on the completion of one year of Marka-e-Haq and paid tribute to the Armed Forces, particularly Syed Asim Munir, for their unwavering commitment to defending the country during every challenging time.
He expressed these views while addressing a special seminar titled “The Role of Literature in Achieving National Objectives”, organized by the Pakistan Academy of Letters to mark one year of the success of Marka-e-Haq.
The Federal Minister said that certain elements attempt to create the impression that the nation and the Armed Forces are not united; however, Marka-e-Haq proved that the entire nation stands firmly alongside its Armed Forces.
He further stated that Mazar-e-Iqbal and Iqbal Academy Pakistan is under the administrative control of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, where significant restoration and improvement work has been carried out through substantial funding. Referring to the historic residence of Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Sialkot, he said that the Ministry had written to the Punjab Government regarding its restoration, after which budgetary allocations were made and rehabilitation work had commenced.
The Minister also sought further guidance regarding the building associated with Allama Iqbal in Germany and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving Pakistan’s literary and intellectual heritage. He expressed confidence that the nation would continue to achieve its collective goals through unity and determination.
Presiding over the seminar, Izhar ul Haq said that books would always remain relevant, although their form may evolve with time. He emphasized that intellectuals and writers must continue promoting patriotism, Pakistaniyat, and the ideology of Pakistan through literature and national discourse.
Chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, Dr. Najeeba Arif, thanked all participants and said that wars today are not fought only on borders but also across hearts, minds, and digital screens. She stressed the importance of building a strong and sincere national narrative rooted in love for country and national identity.
Renowned scholar Dr. Farooq Adil said that literature promotes ethics, tolerance, and dialogue within society, while extremism and intolerance weaken nations. He also urged the government to reduce paper prices and regulate the publishing sector to make books more affordable and encourage reading culture.
Dr. Talat Shabbir stated that future wars would not only be fought with weapons but also through narratives and information. He emphasized that writers, poets, and intellectuals carry the responsibility of strengthening national unity, peace, and patriotism through modern communication platforms, especially social media.
Dr. Waseema Shahzad highlighted the importance of preserving Pakistan’s cultural and literary heritage. She suggested producing films, dramas, and documentaries based on classical literature and cultural traditions to connect younger generations with their historical roots.
Dr. Waheed Ahmad said that Pakistan is emerging before the world as a strong and resilient nation. He appreciated the Pakistan Academy of Letters and the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture for continuously organizing intellectual and literary activities on important national themes.
During the seminar, various proposals were also presented regarding the restoration of the building associated with Allama Iqbal in Germany, as well as the improvement of Allama Iqbal’s residence and museum in Sialkot. Speakers emphasized that literary and cultural sites should be developed into vibrant public and tourism spaces, similar to international models, to promote literature and cultural engagement among the youth.
At the conclusion of the event, Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi distributed prizes among students who participated in the poetry competition.
