STAFF REPORTER
PESHAWAR :
Chairman of Pakistan Organization for Tourism, Culture and Arts (PCTO), Javed Aziz Khilji, met with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Minister Meena Khan Afridi, where a detailed exchange of views was held on the issues faced by the province’s cultural sector, tourism, performing arts, literary activities, and the artist community.
During the meeting, Javed Aziz Khilji said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a province rich in natural beauty, historical heritage, cultural diversity, and immense creative talent. However, artists, poets, writers, musicians, and cultural figures are still deprived of proper patronage, facilities, and opportunities. He stated that art and culture represent the soul and identity of any nation, while tourism plays a fundamental role in the economic development of any region.
He stressed that if the government pays special attention to the sectors of culture, tourism, and the performing arts, not only can the positive image of the province be highlighted globally, but vast employment opportunities can also be created for the youth. On this occasion, he emphasized the need for effective measures for the welfare of artists, organization of cultural festivals, literary gatherings, preservation of traditional arts, and better maintenance of historical sites.
Provincial Minister Meena Khan Afridi said that artists, writers, and cultural figures are the true custodians of our civilization, history, and national identity. He assured that the present government is taking serious steps for the promotion of culture, tourism, and the performing arts, and that a joint meeting with the relevant authorities, Department of Culture officials, and other institutions will soon be convened to find a permanent solution to the issues faced by the artistic community.
He added that the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa takes special interest in promoting youth talent, cultural activities, and tourism projects, and that all possible support will be extended to those associated with these sectors. He further stated that promoting the culture, traditions, languages, and arts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at the national and international level is among the government’s top priorities.
During the meeting, Javed Aziz Khilji also proposed the establishment of a permanent office for PCTO within the Department of Culture so that the organization can more effectively continue cultural, tourism, and artistic activities across the province.
The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere, with both sides expressing their commitment to taking joint and practical steps for the promotion of the cultural heritage, tourist sites, and performing arts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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