Pakistan and Italy Celebrate 70 Years of Archeological Partnership in Swat
SWAT / Khyber Pakhtunkhwa : A landmark event was held at Serena Hotel, Swat, to commemorate 70 years of collaboration between Pakistan and Italy in the field of archaeology — one of the longest-standing cultural partnerships in Pakistan’s history.
The event, organized by Dr. Luca Olivieri, Honorary Swati from Italy, and his colleague Elise Iori, marked the platinum jubilee of the Italian Archaeological Mission in Pakistan (1955–2025). The gathering celebrated decades of research, discovery, and mutual friendship between the two nations.
Since its inception in 1955, the Italian Archaeological Mission has made remarkable contributions to Pakistan’s cultural heritage. Its extensive work includes the excavation and documentation of numerous ancient sites, publication of over 1,500 scholarly works, and active support to Pakistan’s efforts to nominate Jamal Garhi and Barikot as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The mission’s distinctive contribution has been its emphasis on local capacity building. As one speaker aptly remarked, “Luca has made archaeologists from local villagers.” This focus on community involvement has transformed Swat into a center for locally-led conservation and archaeological study.
In addition to celebrating the seven-decade partnership, the event also marked the launch of the “Khyber PATH” project (Professions for Climate Adaptation, Eco-Tourism, and Heritage) — a collaborative initiative between the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). The project aims to promote sustainable tourism and climate-adaptive professions while preserving the region’s archaeological and cultural heritage.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Luca Olivieri expressed gratitude to the Royal Family of Swat, represented by Princess Dr. Mahmud Aurangzeb, Justice Hasan Aurangzeb, and Princess Zenab Adnan, for their continuous patronage since 1955.
Justice Hasan Aurangzeb spoke on his family’s historical support for archaeological missions, reaffirming their enduring commitment to protecting Swat’s heritage.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Imran Shauket, Ambassador for Buddhist Heritage Promotion (GTPL); Yali Xuan, a philanthropist supporting multiple projects in Swat; Dr. Samad, Secretary Tourism and Archaeology KPK; and Dr. Aftab Rana, Managing Director of PTDC. Both Dr. Samad and Dr. Rana were lauded for their exceptional efforts in advancing archaeology and tourism in the province.
Representatives from academia and international institutions also participated. Among them, Dr. Stefan Baums from Munich University highlighted his research and collaborative work in the region.
The ceremony symbolized the spirit of enduring friendship and cross-cultural collaboration, bringing together the Government of Pakistan, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Royal Family of Swat, and international partners from Italy, Germany, and China.
The 70-year milestone stands as a proud testament to how shared heritage, mutual respect, and sustained academic collaboration can strengthen global cultural diplomacy — with Swat at the heart of this historic partnership.
