Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have said that Pakistan's cultural heritage is enriched with a multifaceted civilization. They said that the Government of Pakistan recognizes cultural heritage as vital for national development and international engagement. They said our traditional crafts reflect the diversity and skill of Pakistan's communities. They said that Pakistan stands at the crossroads of some of the world's oldest civilisations.This was stated by President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz Sharif in their separate messages on World Heritage Day. President Zardari said 'I extend my greetings to the nation and to all those committed to the preservation of our shared legacy. This day reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our cultural heritage for future generations, as recognised globally by UNESCO'.He said that Pakistan stands at the crossroads of some of the world's oldest civilisations. From the early Palaeolithic and Neolithic periods to the Bronze Age Indus Valley Civilisation, from the cultural richness of Mehrgarh, Moenjodaro and Gandhara to the Mughal eras, our land reflects a continuous journey of human creativity, innovation and resilience. These civilisations have left an enduring legacy of archaeological sites, architecture and cultural practices that define our national identity.President Zardari said that equally significant is our intangible cultural heritage, including folklore, languages, music, crafts and performing arts. The romances of Heer Ranjha and Sohni Mahiwal, Umar Marvi, Sassi Punhoon, Adam Khan and Darkhanai, Hani and Shah Mureed, the poetry of Sufi saints and qawwali, and the rhythms of ethnic music expressed through rubab, alghoza, tabla, shehnai, flute, sarod, banjo, sarangi and dholak, carry the memory and emotional depth of our people. These traditions, passed down through generations, sustain continuity and shared values.President said that our traditional crafts reflect the diversity and skill of Pakistan 's communities. From Kashmiri embroidery and shawl weaving to Sindhi ajrak and ralli, from Balochi needlework to the blue pottery of Multan, from Peshawari chappal to Chitrali caps, and from the woodwork of Chiniot to truck art, each craft tells a distinct story and connects our past with the present.President Zardari said that Pakistan's World Heritage Sites represent the Indus civilisation, the Buddhist art of Gandhara and the forts and monuments of the Indo-Arab and Mughal periods. They stand as visible records of our history and cultural diversity.He said that for many citizens, heritage is not abstract. It shapes daily life. It supports livelihoods for artisans in markets and workshops, draws visitors to historic cities, and sustains local economies around sites and monuments. It also influences how children learn about their history in schools and how communities maintain a sense of place and continuity.President Zardari said that we remain committed to preserving these assets with professionalism and the use of modern conservation techniques. Preservation is both a responsibility and an opportunity to support tourism, cultural industries and economic activity.President Zardari said 'I urge all stakeholders, including government institutions, provincial authorities, local communities and the youth, to work together for the protection, conservation and promotion of our heritage.Meanwhile Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in his message on International Day for Cultural Heritage said 'Today, Pakistan joins the global community in observing International Day for Cultural Heritage with renewed commitment and resolve. On this occasion, I pay heartfelt tribute to individuals across Pakistan and around the world who are dedicated to preserving our shared cultural heritage which is an invaluable asset of humanity'.PM Shehbaz Sharif said that the observance of a dedicated day for cultural heritage at the global level underscores its profound importance. Cultural heritage embodies social diversity, safeguards our past, reflects our present, and serves as a foundation for our future.He said that Pakistan's cultural heritage is enriched with a multifaceted civilization. Our homeland carries the legacy of some of the world's oldest civilizations, reflecting a vibrant tapestry of human creativity and diversity.PM Shehbaz Sharif said that our priceless heritage defines our national identity and represents the harmony within our society. Cultural narratives and traditions, music, craftsmanship, and regional languages sustain the vitality and spirit of our communities.He said that heritage preserves indigenous knowledge and, in a rapidly changing world, stands as a symbol of continuity.PM Shehbaz Sharif said that the Government of Pakistan recognizes cultural heritage as vital for national development and international engagement. Government is committed to continue efforts to get traditional sites included in UNESCO's heritage lists.He said that the government is also investing in digital cultural platforms to document and preserve heritage. These initiatives will not only safeguard traditions but also promote cultural diplomacy, boost tourism, and strengthen connections with the younger generation.PM Shehbaz Sharif said that cultural heritage today also faces some challenges, including climate change and the erosion of traditional knowledge. Through collective efforts of government, communities, academic institutions, and civil society, we can ensure its safe transmission to future generations.PM Shehbaz Sharif said 'On this significant day, I urge all Pakistanis, especially our youth, to take pride in their cultural heritage and actively contribute to its preservation and promotion. Our heritage is the essence of our national identity and unity. Let us come together to protect and celebrate this invaluable national asset'.