Islamabad: Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to preserving the Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist Heritage of the country. He was addressing a cultural exhibition entitled “Whispers from Gandhara – Showcase of Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan” in New York, United States.

According to Radio Pakistan, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad emphasized that Gandhara is more than just an ancient civilization; it represents a living testament to the values of peace, tolerance, and dialogue that have long been cherished in Pakistan. He highlighted that several of Pakistan’s Buddhist archaeological treasures are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites and reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast cooperation with UNESCO and international partners to protect and promote these sites for future generations.

Furthermore, he extended sincere appreciation to the Office of the District Attorney for its invaluable support in the repatriation and safeguarding of stolen Gandhara artifacts in recent years. The exhibition showcased 39 rare artifacts from the Gandhara and Indus Valley civilizations, all recovered and repatriated to Pakistan through the remarkable efforts of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Antiquities Trafficking Unit.