Islamabad (TDI): Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Saturday said Pakistan places strong emphasis on cultural diplomacy as a key pillar of its foreign engagement, noting that digital media has become central to public outreach, cultural exchange and the promotion of positive narratives.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Tajikistan’s Minister of Culture, Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda, who is visiting Pakistan to mark Tajik Cultural Week. Tarar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Tajikistan, particularly in the digital media sector.
The minister highlighted the growing influence of online platforms in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening people-to-people connections, stressing that cultural diplomacy remains a top priority for Islamabad in the digital era.
Discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, expanding collaboration in digital media, and building stronger institutional links between media organizations in the two countries. Both sides also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting their shared literary and cultural heritage.
Tarar congratulated the Tajik culture minister on the successful organization of Pakistan–Tajikistan Cultural Week, recalling that the initiative was agreed upon during earlier discussions between Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He said cultural festivals serve as an effective platform for deepening people-to-people ties and broadening cultural cooperation.
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Referring to the centuries-old historical and cultural links between Pakistan and Tajikistan, the minister said Pakistan attaches great importance to cultural diplomacy. The two sides also agreed to finalize formal agreements on cultural cooperation ahead of President Rahmon’s expected visit to Pakistan.
Tarar noted that the poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal reflects the intellectual and cultural harmony shared by the two nations. He added that Persian literary figures are held in high esteem in both countries, highlighting the importance attached to safeguarding their common cultural legacy.
Tajikistan’s culture minister thanked the Pakistani government for its support in hosting Tajik Cultural Week and expressed her country’s commitment to continued cooperation with Pakistan in cultural exchanges and digital media. She said showcasing shared literary and cultural traditions would further strengthen bilateral relations.
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The meeting was attended by Tajik Ambassador Sharifzada Yusuf Toir, Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam, Information Secretary Ashfaq Ahmed Khalil, senior officials from the External Publicity Wing and the Directorate of Electronic Media and Publications, along with other officials.
