Remarks by Secretary, National Heritage & Culture Division, Hassan Nasir Jamy at the One-Day International Conference “Celebrating Pakistan’s Ancient Archeological and Civilisational Heritage”
Ladies and gentlemen, and distinguished guests!
AOA!
It is a profound honor to participate in this International Conference to celebrate the ancient and historical civilizations that have graced the land we now call Pakistan. This is not merely a reflection on our past, but also a journey into the heart of our identity—a legacy that stretches back thousands of years and continues to shape the cultural and intellectual heritage of this region.
Among the many ancient civilizations that have thrived here, none stands more significant than the Indus Valley Civilization – one of the oldest and most sophisticated civilizations, surpassing even contemporaries like Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt in certain aspects. It is renowned for its extraordinary urban planning, with cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro exemplifying a level of organization that was far ahead of its time. The architecture was nothing short of groundbreaking, with standardized bricks and buildings reflecting a level of centralization and craftsmanship that speaks to the advanced technological and social organization of the time.
The significance of the Indus Valley Civilization goes beyond urban planning and architecture. The people of this civilization were pioneers in the fields of trade and commerce; they not only developed a system of weights and measures that was remarkably precise, but enabled trade on a scale that was unprecedented in the ancient world. This economic connectivity not only enriched the Indus Valley but also laid the groundwork for cultural exchanges that would influence the region for millennia.
Beyond the Indus Valley, we find the magnificent ruins of Taxila and the Buddhist monastic complexes of Takht-i-Bahi. Taxila, a city that thrived under different empires and rulers—was not only a centre of political and military power but also an epicentre of knowledge and spiritual growth. It became a hub of learning where the great minds of the ancient world—scholars, philosophers, artists, and religious leaders converged to share ideas and develop new philosophies that shaped not only South Asia but also the wider world.
These sites—and many others like them scattered across Pakistan—are not just remnants of the past. They are living symbols of our shared cultural and spiritual journey. In every stone, in every artefact, there is a lesson to be learned about our ancestors, their values, and their contributions to the world. This heritage is not just a source of national pride but a vital link to understanding the larger human story.
Today’s conference is a reflection of our collective responsibility to honour, preserve, and promote this unparalleled legacy. However, the significance of today’s conference goes beyond the academic. Let us remember that we are not just examining the past; we are actively shaping the future of how our heritage will be remembered and valued. Our ancient civilizations—be it the Indus Valley, Gandhara, or the Islamic period—offer timeless lessons in resilience, innovation, and coexistence.
Further, as we reflect on the grandeur of these ancient civilizations, it is crucial to ask ourselves: how can Pakistan leverage this rich heritage to enhance its cultural and economic standing in the world? How can these civilizational sites become not just remnants of the past, but dynamic centers of cultural exchange, tourism, and academic inquiry?
First and foremost, we must recognize that these ancient sites hold immense potential as global tourist destinations. Countries around the world have capitalized on their historical landmarks to boost tourism, creating a global fascination with their heritage. Pakistan, with its ancient treasures like Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Taxila, can do the same, attracting scholars, archaeologists, and history enthusiasts from across the globe. The Indus Valley Civilization alone, with its mystery and magnificence, could become a central pillar in our tourism strategy. However, for this to happen, along with the best measures for preservation and conservation of these sites and artefacts, we must have proactive approach for their promotion as common heritage of mankind.
For Pakistan, to be sure, this is not a matter of tourism alone, rather it is a matter related to identity. By preserving and promoting our multi-layered heritage, we reclaim our place in the broader narrative of human civilization, positioning Pakistan not just as a modern nation but also as the inheritor of one of the world’s greatest ancient cultures. It is thus imperative to take proactive measures, including enhanced funding for archaeological research, conservation projects, and the establishment of museums and cultural centers that can educate both locals and foreign tourists.
Linked with this, it is essential to engage local communities in this process. By developing these sites as tourist hubs, we can create jobs and foster economic growth in these regions, ensuring that the preservation of our heritage goes hand in hand with the prosperity of our people. In addition to tourism, these sites can serve as centers for academic research, attracting scholars and students from around the world, and further enriching the intellectual and cultural life of the nation.
Further, cultural diplomacy must play a pivotal role in this effort. It is indispensable to forge partnerships with international institutions and governments to promote their rich heritage on global platforms. Exhibitions, academic conferences, and documentaries can serve as powerful tools to showcase our civilizational wealth to the world. By doing so, we can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for our history, dispelling misconceptions, and highlighting the contributions of this region to global progress.
It is important to highlight that many of Pakistan’s ancient sites face threats from environmental degradation, urban encroachment, and lack of funding for conservation. It is our duty, as custodians of this heritage, to ensure that these sites are not only protected but also made accessible to the world. This fact needs to be highlighted at all the relevant international forums, including the Green Climate Fund.
Lastly, despite all the efforts made in the past, Pakistan has so far succeeded in placing only six important sites/monuments on UNESCO World Heritage List as our shared Heritage (Rohtas Fort was the last one to be added on the List in 1997; while 25 remain on the tentative list since 2015). This is mainly due to lack of trained staff and experts responsible for protection and preservation of our rich cultural heritage. We must, therefore, seek technical and scientific expertise from the world community for capacity building of our Heritage Managers at the Federal and Provincial levels.
In the end, I would sum up by saying that Pakistan’s ancient civilizations are not relics of a distant past but are vibrant chapter in the continuing story of human development. They remind us of our capacity for innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. As we explore these legacies, we not only pay homage to our ancestors but also take a step toward passing on this rich history and heritage to future generations in good shape. I thank you all for being here today, as we honor the timeless civilizations that have shaped not only Pakistan but also the history of human civilization.
