Summary PM Shehbaz urged all Pakistanis, particularly the youth, to take pride in their cultural heritage and actively contribute to its preservation and promotion.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving Pakistan’s rich cultural legacy and promoting it globally, stressing that cultural heritage was a vital pillar of national identity, unity and sustainable development.
In his message on World Heritage Day, the prime minister said Pakistan joined the global community in observing the day with renewed resolve to safeguard shared cultural assets, paying tribute to individuals across the country and around the world working for the protection of humanity’s heritage.
He said the observance of a dedicated global day for cultural heritage highlighted its profound importance as a reflection of social diversity, a safeguard of the past and a foundation for the future.
The prime minister noted that Pakistan’s homeland carried the legacy of some of the world’s oldest civilizations, representing a vibrant tapestry of human creativity and diversity, while cultural narratives, traditions, regional languages, music and craftsmanship continued to sustain the vitality and spirit of communities across the country.
He said heritage also preserved indigenous knowledge and served as a symbol of continuity in a rapidly changing world.
Highlighting government initiatives, the prime minister said the protection of cultural heritage remained a key component of national development and international engagement. He added that efforts were underway to secure inclusion of more traditional sites on the heritage lists of UNESCO.
He said the government was also investing in digital cultural platforms to document and preserve heritage, noting that such initiatives would help safeguard traditions, promote cultural diplomacy, boost tourism and strengthen engagement with the younger generation.
Referring to emerging challenges, including climate change and erosion of traditional knowledge, the prime minister emphasized the need for collective efforts by government institutions, communities, academic bodies and civil society to ensure safe transmission of heritage to future generations.
On the occasion, he urged all Pakistanis, particularly the youth, to take pride in their cultural heritage and actively contribute to its preservation and promotion, describing it as an invaluable national asset and a source of unity for the nation.
