An exhibition dedicated to the historical and cultural development of Pakistan took place in Tehran, covering the period from ancient civilizations to modern literary traditions. The event gathered diplomats, cultural figures, and researchers to illuminate the long-standing ties between Iran and Pakistan.
The exhibition, titled 'Pakistan Through the Ages,' was organized by the Embassy of Pakistan in Tehran in collaboration with the Economic Cooperation Institute (ECI). It featured historical photographs, calligraphy, paintings, and visual materials from various eras, allowing visitors to explore Pakistan's rich cultural heritage.
The event also served as a platform for discussing the shared civilizational heritage of the countries, the influence of Persian language and literature on the Indian subcontinent, and opportunities to expand cultural and tourism cooperation in the region.
The Pakistani Ambassador to Iran, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, could not attend the ceremony as he was accompanying the Pakistani delegation led by Marshal Asim Munir during their visit to Tehran. His welcoming remarks were delivered by Ismat Hassan Sial, Deputy Head of Mission at the Pakistani Embassy.
Addressing the attendees, Mohammad Hassan, President of the ECI, welcomed the participants and described Pakistan as a country whose identity is shaped by numerous languages, communities, customs, and historical events. He emphasized that Pakistan's cultural wealth cannot be reduced to a single image; it reflects the unique traditions of its regions and communities, which contribute to the overall national identity.
Hassan mentioned the Sufi poetry and music of Sindh, the literary heritage of Punjab, the poetry and crafts of Balochistan, and the storytelling and hospitality traditions of Pashtun communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He also drew attention to the distinct heritage of the Kalash communities in Chitral, as well as the linguistic and cultural diversity of Gilgit-Baltistan and Hunza.
According to him, these regions testify to centuries of interaction between South Asian, Central Asian, and Tibetan cultures. Mountain ranges served not only as barriers but often provided routes for trade, migration, and cultural exchange. He added that national unity does not require erasing cultural differences; respect for local identities and support for their development can strengthen social cohesion and deepen mutual understanding.
The exhibition also demonstrated the influence of Islamic civilization and Persian cultural traditions on the historical and literary development of Pakistan, emphasizing the role of language, music, and poetry in uniting communities across the region.
Anushirvan Mohseni Bandpei, Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Iran for Tourism Affairs, noted the potential of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in promoting regional integration and creating new opportunities for sustainable development. He stated that tourism can be an effective tool for economic growth, strengthening cooperation between member states, and increasing mutual acquaintance among their peoples. Among the measures contributing to achieving these goals, he cited the development of joint tourist routes, simplification of travel, promotion of common cultural attractions, and encouraging interaction between the public and private sectors.
Mohseni Bandpei also highlighted Pakistan's strategic geographical position at the crossroads of South, Central, and West Asia, noting the importance of the country's active participation in realizing ECO's regional objectives. Regarding bilateral relations, he stated that Iran and Pakistan share common interests in regional peace and stability, economic development, public welfare, and sustainable cooperation. Their bond extends beyond political and economic ties, encompassing a long history of cultural, linguistic, and literary interaction.
He also welcomed Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to encourage dialogue and peace negotiations, stressing that mutual understanding and building trust are necessary conditions for lasting peace. Expanding language education, academic exchange, and providing youth with opportunities to learn from thinkers such as Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Jalaluddin Rumi can further strengthen cultural bonds between the two nations.
Golam Ali Haddad-Adel, President of the Saadi Foundation, also addressed the gathering, naming Islam and Persian literature as fundamental connecting elements between Iran and Pakistan. He noted that the Persian language played a significant role in transmitting Islamic thought to the Indian subcontinent, particularly through mystical literature and poetry. In his view, the historical influence of the Persian language is still evident in Urdu and Pakistan's literary traditions.
Haddad-Adel pointed to the extensive collections of Persian manuscripts housed in Pakistani libraries, as well as the contribution of generations of Pakistani poets who wrote in Persian. He also specifically highlighted the significance of Allama Iqbal, whose intellectual and literary legacy represents an important link between the two countries. Comparing Lahore and Isfahan, he observed that these cities possess recognizable cultural and historical features reflecting their long-standing connections.
Participants agreed that the shared heritage of the region serves as a valuable foundation for closer cultural relations and regional cooperation. The exhibition reminded everyone that centuries of civilizational interaction have left an indelible mark on the languages, literature, and traditions of the peoples of this region.
