• Climate change, erosion of traditional knowledge cited as key threats to national legacy
• Highlight heritage spanning Indus Valley Civilisation to Mughal era; folk traditions, languages, crafts called vital to identity
• Calls youth engagement, digital preservation key to future protection

ISLAMABAD: President and prime minister on Saturday issued passionate appeals for collective action to protect the nation’s vast cultural heritage, marking World Heritage Day with calls to safeguard priceless treasures against threats including climate change and the loss of traditional knowledge.

In separate statements, both leaders emphasised the crucial role of Pakistan’s rich tangible and intangible assets in defining national identity, urging government institutions, local communities and the youth to collaborate in preservation efforts.

President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, made a fervent appeal for unified efforts to protect and preserve the country’s extensive cultural endowment.

The statement highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to employing professional and modern conservation techniques, an effort that has been recognised globally by UNESCO.

He detailed the nation’s profound historical tapestry, which spans from the early Palaeolithic and Neolithic periods through the Bronze Age Indus Valley Civilization and extends to the Gandhara and Mughal eras.

Specific mention was made of culturally rich sites such as Mehrgarh, Moenjodaro and Gandhara, underscoring their significance as testaments to human creativity, innovation and resilience over millennia.

According to the statement, these archaeological wonders, architectural marvels and traditional practices are pivotal in defining the country’s national identity.

Beyond tangible sites, the president’s message highlighted the nation’s equally significant intangible cultural assets, including diverse folklore, languages, musical traditions and performing arts.

Epics like Heer Ranjha, Sohni Mahiwal, Umar Marvi, Sassi Punhoon, Adam Khan and Darkhanai, alongside Sufi poetry and qawwali, were noted for conveying the collective memory and emotional fabric of its populace.

Traditional instruments such as the rubab, alghoza, tabla, shehnai, flute, sarod, banjo, sarangi and dholak enrich these enduring customs, fostering continuity and shared values across generations.

The statement also showcased the exceptional skill of Pakistani communities through diverse traditional crafts, from Kashmiri embroidery and shawl weaving to Sindhi ajrak and ralli, Balochi needlework and Multan’s blue pottery.

Iconic items like Peshawari chappals, Chitrali caps, Chiniot woodwork and distinctive truck art each narrate a unique story, bridging historical narratives with contemporary life.

Pakistan’s designated World Heritage Sites vividly represent significant historical epochs, including the Indus Civilisation, the Buddhist artistic legacy of Gandhara, and the forts and monuments from the Indo-Arab and Mughal periods.

The president highlighted heritage’s profound impact on daily life, supporting artisans’ livelihoods, attracting tourists to historic cities, and boosting local economies.

He reiterated the country’s strong commitment to preserving cultural treasures as both a duty and a chance to boost tourism and cultural industries.

The message urged all stakeholders to work together in protecting, conserving, and promoting Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.

‘Climate, knowledge loss’

In a separate message, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to those dedicated to preserving cultural heritage while highlighting significant threats facing Pakistan’s diverse legacy.

PM Shehbaz cited climate change and the loss of traditional knowledge as particular challenges as the nation renewed its commitment to safeguarding these invaluable assets for future generations.

He paid tribute to individuals worldwide dedicated to this cause, emphasising an international day’s significance in embodying diversity, safeguarding history, reflecting the present, and building the future.

He said Pakistan’s cultural inheritance is rich with a multifaceted civilisation, reflecting a vibrant mosaic of human creativity and diversity that intrinsically defines the national identity and represents societal harmony.

Cultural narratives, traditional practices, music, craftsmanship and regional languages, he added, are critical in sustaining the vitality and spirit of communities and preserving indigenous knowledge.

The prime minister acknowledged the pivotal role of cultural heritage in national development and international engagement and affirmed the government’s commitment to securing the inclusion of traditional sites on UNESCO’s esteemed heritage registers.

He highlighted investment in digital platforms to document and protect heritage. These initiatives aim to preserve traditions, enhance cultural diplomacy, boost tourism, and strengthen ties with younger generations.

Acknowledging contemporary challenges, the premier emphasised the necessity of collective efforts by the government, local communities, academic bodies and civil society to ensure the safe transmission of this legacy.

He appealed to all Pakistanis, especially the youth, to embrace their cultural background with pride and actively contribute to its preservation and promotion.

“Heritage constitutes the very essence of national identity and unity,” PM Shehbaz said in his concluding remarks, urging collective efforts to safeguard and commemorate this invaluable national asset.

Published in Dawn, April 19th, 2026