More than 2,000 cultural figures, international experts and officials gathered in Saint Petersburg for the 11th International United Cultures Forum, where Russia emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation and participants from around the world took part in discussions, performances and visits to the city’s historic sites. Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Orangzeb Khan Khichi, joined the forum, addressed senior diplomatic sessions and highlighted the popularity of Russian literary figures in Pakistan while calling for deeper cultural ties.
The forum drew a broad cross-section of attendees, including prominent Russian artists, foreign specialists in arts and culture, leaders of international cultural organizations, business representatives and senior government officials. Sessions brought together ministers, heads of international bodies and other policy makers to discuss cultural and humanitarian aspects of international cooperation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin used a plenary session to stress Moscow’s focus on cultural and humanitarian cooperation, underscoring support for strengthening ties between Russian and foreign artists. His remarks set the tone for dialogue on how cultural exchange can underpin broader international relations.
Orangzeb Khan Khichi participated actively in several forum events. He addressed a session attended by foreign ministers and heads of international organizations and spoke at a panel on cultural cooperation among member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Khichi pointed to the enduring popularity in Pakistan of Russian writers such as Alexander Pushkin and Leo Tolstoy and expressed hope that cultural relations between Pakistan and Russia will continue to deepen.
Delegates also enjoyed a rich cultural program in Saint Petersburg, attending concerts and touring historic sites and exhibitions. These activities gave participants first-hand exposure to Russia’s artistic traditions and historical heritage, complementing the forum’s policy discussions with direct cultural engagement.
