A two-day symposium and exhibition, "From Gandhara to the World," began at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, coinciding with 'Vesak Day.' The event, held from May 28-29, 2024, showcases Pakistan’s cultural heritage and promotes inter-faith harmony.

Attendees include diplomats, officials, scholars, artists, and 25 foreign delegates, including ministers from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. Sri Lanka’s Minister for Buddhasasana, Vidura Wikramanayaka, was the guest of honor.

Additional Foreign Secretary Ambassador Maryam Madiha Aftab delivered the welcome remarks. Speakers included Thich Ductuan (Vietnam), Anil Sakya (Thailand), Om Charan Amatya (Nepal), Stefano Davide Bettera (European Buddhist Union), and Li Xiguang (Tsinghua University). A message from Venerable Dhimbulkumbure Sri Sarankara Vimaladhamma Thera was read by Venerable Tempitiye Indawimala.

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhary Salik Hussain, emphasized the importance of inter-community bridges and shared values symbolized by Gandhara. Future sessions will explore the Gandharan heritage, which emerged in northwest Pakistan from the blend of Hellenistic and local traditions over three thousand years ago.
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