ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is a county with a diverse culture but unfortunately its cultural space has been challenged in the recent years. So it is time to support Pakistan’s culture in order to ensure sustainable development in the country.

This was stated by Ambassador of Denmark Jesper Moller Sorensen at the inaugural ceremony of the ‘Pakistan culture and development programme’ at Lok Virsa on Tuesday.

The two-year programme aims at highlighting Pakistani art, culture and national heritage together with sustainable development and economic growth achieved through artistic expression and creative entrepreneurship.

Mr Sorensen said $4 million had been allocated for the programme supported by the Danish Center for Culture and Development (CKU).

“During the World War when Winston Churchill was requested to reduce funding for the art and culture and divert the funds towards the war budget, Mr Churchill said ‘if we cut funding for art and culture, then what are we fighting for?’”

He said the first ever cultural support programme by Denmark would provide a platform to start inter-cultural dialogue between the two countries.

“Art and culture are an important means to bridge differences, create tolerance and ultimately provide opportunities for every single individual regardless of who they are. One should never underestimate the importance of creativity and innovation in the private sector,” he said.

Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage Senator Pervaiz Rasheed spoke only for one minute and said he did not want to become a hurdle between the programme and the audience.

The ceremony featured folk, musical and theatrical performances by “Cholistan story tellers” by Lok Virsa’s Raanti Group, scenes from acclaimed play “Bulleh Shah” by Ajoka Theatre and musical performance by student-teacher duo from Balochistan on Baloch folk musical instruments, ‘Saroz’ and ‘Chaghaka’.

The programme comprises three components: empowerment of people through active participation in art and cultural activities, enhancement of economic growth through creative industries and promotion of intercultural dialogue and intercultural collaboration at national, regional and international levels.

Earlier, CKU executive director Elisabeth Krogh said it would provide important an intercultural cooperation between Denmark and Pakistan.

“The programme will contribute to the ongoing Danish efforts in Pakistan for poverty alleviation through stabilisation and peace building and enhanced human rights and gender equality,” she said.

Executive Director Lok Virsa Dr Fouzia Saeed expressed the hope that the programme would provide a much needed platform and opportunity for Pakistan’s art and culture sector to thrive and play its role in the country’s progress and development.

Published in Dawn, May 27th, 2015

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