Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for National Heritage & Culture, welcomed a cultural delegation from the Republic of Tajikistan at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts in Islamabad, marking the first day of the visit by Minister of Culture H.E. Sattoriyon Mattubakhon Amonzod. The reception brought together senior officials, artists and cultural institutions to discuss ways to broaden people-to-people engagement.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Culture and Heritage Huzaifa Rehman and Federal Secretary NHCD Asad Rehman Gilani participated in the event, underlining the shared historic and civilizational links between the two countries. Speakers highlighted how cultural ties form a vital pillar of the bilateral relationship and help deepen mutual understanding across communities.
Delegation members and Pakistani counterparts discussed the role of cultural diplomacy in complementing official relations and expanding cooperation in arts, music, literature and heritage preservation. Reference was made to the Cultural Cooperation Agreement signed in June 2021 as the institutional framework that will guide sustained collaboration between cultural organizations.
The visiting delegation toured the PNCA calligraphy and arts exhibition and praised Pakistan’s artistic traditions and the cultural expressions that both nations share. A symbolic exchange saw traditional Tajik attire presented to Mr Aurangzeb Khan Khichi and Mr Huzaifa Rehman, a gesture reflecting mutual respect and the warmth of cultural ties.
Cultural performances and activities planned in Islamabad and Lahore during the visit are expected to reinforce public appreciation and strengthen institutional linkages. The first day concluded with a renewed commitment from both sides to expand cultural exchanges, invigorate joint programmes and nurture a more dynamic and lasting partnership between Pakistan and Tajikistan.
