ISLAMABAD, March 9: A nostalgic journey back into the ancient Gandhara civilization in Taxila and a lifelike observation of Pakistan’s diversity-filled culture at Lok Virsa drew appreciation from the Saarc Information leaders on Saturday.

“I thank the Pakistani Government and people for preserving this great archaeological heritage, it really reflects the cultural tolerance being practised by the Pakistani nation,” Sri Lankan head of delegation, Kuma Abeysinghe said.

Being a Buddhist from Sri Lanka, he said, he was overwhelmed by the objects he saw in the sprawling Taxila museum.

Indian Information Minister, Sushma Swaraj said, the visit to Taxila reminded one of the great past.

“We used to study in our textbooks that Taxila and Nalandha were great centres of learning, so I really became nostalgic.”

The museum has been very well maintained, she said after getting glimpses of the civilization from a treasured collection of archaeological fragments, ornaments, bedecked jars, water vessels and flasks.

“They have preserved the articles meticulously and displayed them beautifully, I congratulate and thank Pakistani Government for doing this” she said.

At Lok Virsa Museum, the Saarc information ministers witnessed many facets of Pakistani culture including some glimpses of Tharparkar, Thal, Harappa and Kalash civilizations.

Information Minister Nisar A Memon and Secretary Infor-mation Syed Anwar Mehmood welcomed the delegates.

Director Uxi Mufti, apprising the delegates about the cultural diversity of Pakistan and country’s respect for different cultures, informed the delegates that the Hindus in Tharparkar are living happily.

Of particular attention were the Fresco paintings, wood work, metal craft and architectural craft signifying Pakistan’s close cultural affinity with both Central Asia and South Asia.

Calligraphy with mirror work and musical instruments arrayed at the museum also captured visitors attention.

The delegates expressed great appreciation for the museum’s library which houses books on the many and various cultures found across the country.—APP