On September 30, 2025, at the UNESCO World Conference MONDIACULT 2025, the Republic of Bulgaria and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan formalised a new cultural cooperation through the signing of a Programme for Cooperation in the Field of Culture for 2025–2027. The agreement was signed by Marian Bachev, Minister of Culture of Bulgaria, and Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture of Pakistan.
The programme is designed to strengthen cultural cooperation between the two countries by enabling joint participation in international festivals, exhibitions, book fairs and seminars. It places special emphasis on collaboration in museums, archaeology and the preservation of cultural heritage, creating opportunities for Pakistani institutions to engage in shared projects and exchanges with Bulgarian counterparts.
Translation and publication of literary works are highlighted as a priority to broaden access to each country’s literary traditions, while exchange of experts and academic delegations will support capacity building, research partnerships and professional development. The agreement also commits both parties to coordinated action against illegal trafficking of cultural property, reinforcing measures to protect and repatriate vulnerable artefacts.
Framed within the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Pakistan, the programme aims for sustainable, long-term cultural ties built on mutual respect and shared values. For Pakistan, the agreement offers expanded avenues for cultural diplomacy, museum cooperation and literary exchange that can benefit artists, scholars and heritage professionals across the country during 2025–2027.
