ISLAMABAD, July 20: Pakistan has been offered the membership of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), a Unesco-affiliated nucleus entrusted with the objective of promotion of world peace, understanding and cooperation through theatrical exposures.

According to the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), it was disclosed by Jennifer M. Walpole, ITI secretary- general, in a letter to Naim Tahir, director-general PNCA.

It is learnt that preceding to offering the membership to Pakistan the general council and the executive committee of the ITI have had thorough deliberations over the state of culture and arts especially theatrical exposures in Pakistan. The international body opined with unanimity of the high profile cultural entity of the country enriched with the cherished values of love, peace and tolerance emanating from its ideological fabric.

Established in 1940s, the ITI enjoys a vast intellectual and professional paraphernalia in areas of theatrical creativity. With its worldwide scope of initiations it perceives, plans and executes a variety of pursuits including creative of theatrical literature its publication and production, professional dialogue, seminars, symposia and congresses etc.

The latest 31st congress held recently in Manila, Philippines was participated by Mr Tahir, who pleaded the case of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and its exquisite exposure through theatrical activities in the country.

It was followed by a persistent rapport with ITI, Paris resulting in giving Pakistan the status of full member of the world art body. It is known that out of scores of applications only three countries including Italy, UAE and Pakistan were given full membership.

Having the membership status of the world art body the writers, directors, producers, artistes, technicians and allied supportive personnel would have an open avenue of learning and sharing their experience and expertise with their counterparts hailing from other member states of the ITI.