ISLAMABAD: Senior PML-N leader and former Punjab chief minister Hamza Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday inaugurated the Shah Allah Ditta Buddha Caves Preservation Project in Islamabad, marking what officials described as an important step towards the preservation and promotion of Pakistan\u2019s Buddhist heritage and shared cultural history.<\/p>\n
After the inauguration, Hamza Shahbaz visited the historic caves, where Secretary National Heritage and Culture Division Asad Rehman Gillani briefed him on the completion of the preservation project, its key features and overall cost.<\/p>\n
The visit highlighted the historical significance of the caves, which bear testimony to the presence and religious practices of Buddhist communities in the region.<\/p>\n
A documentary on the historical background and archaeological significance of the Shah Allah Ditta Caves was also screened during the opening ceremony. The documentary showcased the site\u2019s association with Buddhist worship and the area\u2019s rich cultural legacy.<\/p>\n
Addressing the ceremony, Hamza Shahbaz appreciated the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture for its efforts to preserve and restore the historic site. He said it was a pleasure to be present at the scenic location, surrounded by lush green trees and mountains, and commended the initiative for safeguarding an important part of Pakistan\u2019s shared heritage.<\/p>\n
He said Islam teaches respect for other religions, protection of minorities\u2019 rights and safeguarding their places of worship. He observed that the initiative would project Pakistan\u2019s positive and soft image internationally while turning the site into an attractive destination for visitors.<\/p>\n
Hamza Shahbaz said the project would enable people to explore and appreciate the country\u2019s rich cultural heritage.<\/p>\n
He also stressed the need for improved road connectivity to the caves and requested Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi to take up the matter with the relevant authorities for the construction of a better and more direct access road.<\/p>\n
He said improved connectivity would facilitate visitors, promote local tourism, and generate employment and economic opportunities for surrounding communities. Appreciating the emerging commercial activity in the area, he said people deserved recreational spaces where families could spend quality time while enjoying Pakistan\u2019s historical and natural beauty.<\/p>\n
Hamza Shahbaz welcomed diplomats and visitors, particularly those from Buddhist countries, to visit the historic site with their families. He expressed the hope that the site would serve as a symbol of mutual respect, religious harmony and shared heritage. He also prayed for Pakistan\u2019s continued progress, prosperity and peace.<\/p>\n
Speaking on the occasion, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi thanked Hamza Shahbaz Sharif for inaugurating the Shah Allah Ditta Buddha Caves Preservation Project and reaffirmed the government\u2019s commitment to protecting Pakistan\u2019s historic Buddhist heritage.<\/p>\n
The minister urged the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation and the media to play their role in creating awareness about the historical and religious significance of the caves and promoting the site among domestic and international visitors, particularly from Buddhist countries.<\/p>\n
Reassuring the participating diplomats, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the government was committed to preserving and protecting all Buddhist heritage sites across Pakistan.<\/p>\n
He said such initiatives would strengthen cultural diplomacy, promote interfaith harmony and further enhance Pakistan\u2019s positive image internationally.<\/p>\n
The ceremony was attended by Federal Minister Rana Mubashar, Member of the National Assembly Anjam Aqeel Khan, former deputy mayor Islamabad Syed Zeeshan Shah, SAPM Aon Chaudhary, SAPM Talha Barki, senior government officials, diplomats from Buddhist countries and other distinguished guests.<\/p>\n
At the conclusion of the ceremony, former deputy mayor Islamabad Syed Zeeshan Shah presented a souvenir to Hamza Shahbaz Sharif as a gesture of appreciation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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