Pakistan and Ukraine have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the fields of culture and heritage, aiming to deepen people-to-people connections and highlight each country’s rich traditions. Discussions between senior officials from both nations included plans for joint events, exchange programs, and greater collaboration in literature and the arts.
During a meeting in Islamabad, the Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, welcomed proposals from Ukraine to enhance cultural ties. He met with Oksana Patriaeva, the First Secretary of the Ukrainian Embassy, who suggested introducing Ukrainian heritage, literature, and arts in Pakistan, including setting up a Ukrainian Book Corner at the National Library of Pakistan. This initiative is intended to familiarize Pakistani audiences with Ukrainian culture and history.
Ms. Patriaeva emphasized the warmth of Pakistan’s people and expressed Ukraine’s interest in organizing cultural exchange programs, film screenings, exhibitions, and other artistic initiatives. She added that Ukraine values the support received from the Pakistani government and is eager to increase direct public engagement between the two countries.
In response, Minister Khichi assured full facilitation for these proposals and announced the appointment of a focal person to coordinate activities. He highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in promoting Pakistan’s soft image internationally and proposed expanding current cultural agreements. He extended an invitation to Ukraine to establish a pavilion at the annual Lok Mela festival at Lok Virsa, providing a platform to showcase Ukrainian cuisine, crafts, and performances. He also offered the use of gallery spaces in Karachi and Lahore for Ukrainian exhibitions.
Ms. Patriaeva welcomed these gestures, saying Ukraine is ready to bring its artists and films to Pakistan. She also expressed a desire to visit Pakistan’s historical sites, such as Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, as part of strengthening heritage collaboration.
Minister Khichi noted that the government has formed a special committee dedicated to reviving the film industry, and assured that all relevant institutions would support the planned Ukrainian cultural events and exhibitions.
Both sides concluded the meeting with a renewed commitment to accelerate cultural cooperation and develop new avenues for engagement based on their shared heritage. The initiatives are seen as key steps in reinforcing Pakistan–Ukraine relations through the power of cultural diplomacy.
