ISLAMABAD: A special exhibition is showcasing the cultural property of Pakistan recently repatriated from the United Kingdom and the United States of America at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA).

The National Heritage and Culture Division has organised the show which will continue till Friday. These artefacts were smuggled out of the country and were returned under the provisions of the Unesco Convention 1970. The organisers said the event aimed to highlight Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and the importance of international cooperation in the protection and restitution of stolen cultural artefacts.

Department of Archaeology and Museums officials said the smuggled artefacts of Pakistani origin confiscated in the USA, UK, France and Italy had been handed over to the high commissions of Pakistan.

An official statement issued by the department said the artefacts were national assets and reflected the ancient history of Pakistan.

These artefacts were required to be repatriated to the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Islamabad. The artefacts will be displayed at the Islamabad Museum for research and education purposes.

The first container, containing 192 items, had been delivered and received by DOAM. However, the second container of 133 items was yet to be shipped, the statement added.

The antiques in Italy may not be exported until authorisation is obtained from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As of now, the embassy of Pakistan in Italy has not yet received the required approval.

“The shipper is actively following up on this matter and as soon as authorisation is granted, they will proceed with the packing and shipment without delay.

Published in Dawn, February 26th, 2025