Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari inaugurated Tajikistan Cultural Week at Pakistan National Council of Arts, Islamabad today. Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the President emphasized the visit of the Tajik Cultural Delegation, led by Minister for Culture Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda, as a reflection of the strong friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari highlighted the historical connection between the regions through the Silk Road, which fostered trade, ideas, languages, poetry, and traditions. He noted the significant role of the Persian language as a medium of learning, poetry, and administration in the region now known as Pakistan. Furthermore, the President stressed the importance of cultural diplomacy for Pakistan and acknowledged the shared vision of regional cooperation and connectivity through organizations like ECO and SCO.

Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, remarked on the deep-rooted cultural ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan, which form the foundation of their long-term partnership. In her address, Tajikistan’s Minister for Culture expressed her pleasure with the enduring spiritual, linguistic, historic, and cultural ties that continue to expand into political, economic, security, and cultural fields.

The event saw an exchange of gifts, with the Tajik Minister presenting a Tajik Zarduzi Coat and Tajik Toki Cap to President Zardari, who wore them with joy. In return, the President gifted a portrait adorned with Persian verses to the Tajik Minister. The ceremony concluded with vibrant musical dance performances by a Tajik musical chorus and singers, showcasing traditional Tajik musical instruments.