PESHAWAR: An eight-member Chinese delegation on Friday visited the Peshawar Museum and archaeological sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, evincing keen interest in the findings and discoveries of Buddhism and Buddhist heritage.

The delegation, comprising scholars, professors and researchers from the Peking University, Beijing, National Arts University, Singapore Institute, Ranwan University and Research Centre, China, was accorded welcome by General Manager Tourist Information Centres (TICs) Mohammad Ali Syed, curator Peshawar Museum Mohammad Asif and other officials, according to a statement issued here.

Mr Asif briefed the visiting delegates about the archaeological sites in Peshawar, Buddhism, gallery of Buddhist statues, antiques and artifacts at the Peshawar Museum.

He said there were over 6,000 archaeological and heritage sites in the province, where research was being carried out to revive these sites properly.

“The followers of Buddhism would find a treasure trove of Buddhist statues and heritage after thorough research and revival of these sites,” the official told the delegation.

GM TICs Ali Syed said the visit of foreign dignitaries was meant to highlight to the world the importance of heritage and archaeological sites related to Buddhism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, besides promoting religious tourism in the province.

He said the government had taken a number of steps for attracting foreign tourists, scholars and researchers to the province.

The official said a comprehensive policy had been evolved for preserving and protecting the archaeological sites.

He informed the Chinese delegates that initiatives were being taken to carry out excavation on archaeological sites through modern techniques. He also mentioned about the latest discoveries and the rich Gandhara heritage in various parts of the province.

Mr Syed said the government was giving top priority to repair, renovation and preservation of archaeological heritage, and historical buildings in the province, adding a plan had been chalked out to protect and preserve all ancient places and buildings in a proper manner.

The delegates said that Peshawar was a historic and safe city and that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were hospitable and friendly.

Earlier, the delegation visited the Buddhist complex in Takht Bhai.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2018