ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Kuninori Matsuda on Monday visited the historical Shah Allah Ditta caves and inaugurated an information board.

The Japanese ambassador, on the invitation of former deputy mayor of Islamabad Syed Zeeshan Naqvi visited the historical site located in Margalla Hills, Islamabad. He was briefed by caretakers of the site.

According to a press release, issued by the former deputy mayor, the ambassador also announced to extend the embassy’s support in construction of a road towards the site.

Talking to the press at the site, Mr Matsuda said that tourists and businessmen from Japan will visit Pakistan to boost trade, investment and tourism as the Japanese government is considering changing travel guidelines for visitors to Pakistan. “We can understand the significance of this place and great history,” he said, adding that more people will learn about the Gandhara civilisation by visiting this beautiful place.

Around 2,000 years ago, Alexander the Great stayed in this beautiful place, he pointed out, adding Buddhist culture is spread all over here which brings us close.

The 2,500-year old Buddhist caves and rock shelters are located next to the shrine of Hazrat Shah Allah Ditta, a Mughal-era saint. The caves were first brought into use by humans during the stone age.

The ambassador along with his wife and senior officials of the embassy also visited a step-well located in Kentla – located at the border between Islamabad and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Talking to journalists, Mr Naqvi said that the caves were an asset for promotion of religious tourism in the country.

He thanked the ambassador, his wife and other senior officials for visiting the site.

Mr Naqvi said that the road leading towards the caves is dilapidated and needs repair and expansion. By developing a proper site and preserving the caves, the government could easily promote religious tourism in the capital, he added.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2021