Pakistan to work with other SCO countries to achieve common goals: official

Pakistan is looking forward to working with all countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to achieve common goals, said an adviser to the Pakistani prime minister.

Adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister for Political, Public Affairs, National Heritage and Culture Amir Muqam said on Monday that Pakistan attaches great importance to the SCO and strongly believes that "it is a unique platform to celebrate our commonalities and to work together to forge a common future marked by our rich cultural heritage."

Addressing the 20th meeting of ministers of culture of the member states of the SCO virtually, the adviser who has the portfolio of the federal minister said, "We are ready to collaborate with SCO member states by launching joint initiatives, projects and programs."

"We strongly believe that cooperation in all fields of culture is crucial to promoting mutual understanding and cooperation among our member states," said the official, adding that the cooperation would ensure the effective exchanges of folk artists, research scholars, museums technicians and managers as well as arts and craft experts.

The adviser told the participants of the meeting that Pakistan is home to a variety of ancient sites and historic structures and "these archeological wonders are a reminder of the region's rich cultural heritage."

The official reiterated his belief that cultural relations among SCO member states are crucial for promoting mutual understanding, building bridges of friendship, and strengthening cultural ties.

He said that SCO has become an important platform for the participating countries to enhance their cultural exchanges and promote mutual understanding.

Describing the diverse cultural and historical traditions the SCO member states have, the adviser stressed the need to "focus on the role of technology in promoting cultural exchanges" to expand such cooperation at the SCO platform.