President Asif Ali Zardari has called for joint efforts by government institutions, provincial authorities, local communities and youth to safeguard Pakistan’s rich cultural legacy. This call was made on World Heritage Day, emphasizing that heritage preservation is both a national responsibility and an opportunity for economic and social development.
In his message, the President noted that Pakistan stands at the crossroads of some of the world’s oldest civilizations, from the early Palaeolithic and Neolithic periods to the Bronze Age Indus Valley Civilization. He also highlighted the cultural richness of Mehrgarh, Mohenjo-daro and Gandhara, as well as later Mughal era legacies.
The President emphasized intangible heritage, including folklore, languages, music, crafts and performing arts such as classical romances like Heer Ranjha and Sohni Mahiwal, Sufi poetry and qawwali traditions. These elements carried the collective memory of the people and helped sustain continuity of shared values across generations.
Traditional crafts were also highlighted, including Kashmiri embroidery and shawl weaving, Sindhi ajrak and ralli work, Balochi needlework, blue pottery of Multan, Peshawari chappal, Chitrali caps, woodwork of Chiniot and the vibrant tradition of Truck art. These expressions reflected the diversity and skills of Pakistan’s communities.
The President also pointed out that Pakistan’s World Heritage Sites represented the Indus civilization, Buddhist art of Gandhara and forts and monuments of Indo-Arab and Mughal periods. He observed that heritage was a living reality supporting livelihoods of artisans, attracting visitors to historic cities, strengthening local economies around heritage sites and monuments, and helping children understand their history and identity.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to preservation through professional expertise and modern conservation techniques, President Zardari said heritage protection could promote tourism, cultural industries and economic activity. He urged all stakeholders to work collectively for the protection, conservation and promotion of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.