Islamabad: The Pak-Tajik Cultural Festival Week was officially inaugurated at Lok Virsa, Islamabad, in a vibrant ceremony attended by Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Minister of Culture of Tajikistan H.E. Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, the Tajik Ambassador, senior officials, diplomats, artists, and cultural figures.

Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi highlighted that the festival reflects the deep-rooted friendship and historical ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan. He emphasized that cultural diplomacy fosters peace, harmony, and people-to-people contact, while the exchange of art, music, and traditions strengthens regional bonds and sends a positive message to the youth.

Minister of Culture of Tajikistan, H.E. Amonzoda, underscored the centuries-old spiritual, linguistic, and cultural connections between the two countries, praising bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership. She noted that Tajik and Urdu poetry share a common cultural source and described cultural festivals as instruments promoting peace, friendship, and mutual respect.

The Prime Minister's Adviser for National Heritage and Culture shared that the Prime Minister has endorsed the initiative and directed a large Pakistani cultural delegation to visit Tajikistan to further enhance bilateral cultural cooperation. He also commended the Tajik Ambassador for his efforts in strengthening cultural ties.

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan welcomed the joint cultural programs, congratulating both ministers and the ambassador on the successful organization of the festival.

The inauguration concluded with enthralling performances of folk music, traditional dances, and cultural displays. The Pak-Tajik Cultural Festival Week is being celebrated as a landmark step in deepening cultural relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan.