Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi stressed that Pakistan’s cultural diversity is its greatest asset and a practical foundation for national cohesion and progress while speaking at a Policy Dialogue on Prospects and Challenges to National Cohesion and Cultural Integrity in Islamabad on Monday.
Welcoming scholars, artists, policymakers and students, the minister described the dialogue as part of a wider government vision to foster inclusivity, understanding and social harmony across Pakistan’s communities. He said culture can become the bridge that connects differences and opens channels for respectful exchange.
Mr Khichi outlined plans for the newly announced Centre for National Cohesion and Outreach, saying the Centre will operate as a think-and-do tank to document cultural plurality, engage youth through art, media and education, and provide evidence-based policy inputs to strengthen national cohesion. The initiative is intended to link creative expression with community empowerment and to build resilience at the grassroots.
The minister warned that trends such as polarization and inequality have weakened the social fabric in many countries, including Pakistan, and that losing the ability to listen and celebrate diversity undermines nationhood. He noted that institutions like Lok Virsa and targeted initiatives from the ministry can help rebuild connections among diverse groups.
Secretary National Heritage and Culture Division Asad Rehman Gillani formally announced the establishment of the Centre for National Cohesion and Outreach, explaining that it will harness shared stories, songs and values to heal divisions and unite people. The ministry plans to collaborate with universities, research organisations and international partners such as UNESCO and UNODC to develop programmes that promote peace, tolerance and civic values across Pakistan.
Executive Director Lok Virsa Dr Waqas Saleem welcomed participants and outlined the forum’s objectives, emphasising the Centre’s role as a collaborative space for artists, scholars and community leaders to promote dialogue among diverse groups and engage young Pakistanis. Mr Khichi concluded by underscoring that national cohesion cannot be legislated but must be nurtured through sustained dialogue and inclusive cultural policies.
