A dynamic gathering took place at the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan in Zaman Park, where the Portuguese Ambassador to Pakistan, His Excellency Frederico Silva, joined a rich dialogue focused on cultural ties between Pakistan and Portugal. The event, held on February 24, 2025, featured notable attendees such as journalist Teresa Nicolau and Honorary Consul Mr. Iftikhar Firoz, along with a diverse range of artists and conservation experts.
During the session, CEO Tausif Khawaja welcomed guests and presented an overview of conservation efforts in Pakistan, showcasing restoration projects at notable sites like Lahore Fort and Wazir Khan Mosque through engaging video presentations. Ambassador Silva emphasised the shared cultural history of both nations, particularly in art and architecture, highlighting opportunities for collaboration through various cultural initiatives involving artists and musicians.
The roundtable sparked an insightful discussion among participants, who expressed the need for joint initiatives such as art residencies and concerts to foster these cultural connections. Prominent figures in the creative community, including Nashmia Haroon and Saad Sheikh, voiced their support for collaborative projects that amplify the voices of artists from both countries.
Ambassador Silva recognised Pakistan’s wealth of artistic talent and the potential for vibrant cultural exchanges. He remarked, “I would be happy to facilitate cultural exchange between Portugal and Pakistan that involves music and visual art,” inviting further exploration of artistic collaborations between the nations.
Echoing this sentiment, Teresa Nicolau stressed the importance of storytelling in challenging stereotypes and emphasising the richness of culture. She lamented that mainstream journalism often neglects heritage, saying, “Culture tends to be reduced to mere entertainment, but it is much more than that; it is part of our identity.”
The dialogue concluded with a consensus that expanding cultural activities required not only support from governments and donor agencies but also an initiative from creatives themselves to promote the arts. This commitment to nurturing artistic expression underscores the undeniable bond waiting to be forged between the two countries.
A roundtable on cultural ties between Pakistan and Portugal convened at the Aga Khan Cultural Service, fostering dialogue on heritage and intercultural collaboration. Notable attendees included Portuguese Ambassador Frederico Silva and journalist Teresa Nicolau. Discussions centred on joint artistic initiatives, the importance of storytelling, and the need for creative individuals to take initiative in promoting cultural activities.
The roundtable held at the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan highlighted the immense potential for cultural collaboration between Pakistan and Portugal. With insights from key figures, it was reiterated that through joint artistic initiatives and personal commitments to cultural promotion, a deeper connection can be established. Emphasising storytelling and heritage, the participants committed to reshaping the narrative surrounding both nations’ cultures.
Original Source: 24newshd.tv
