ISLAMABAD, Jan 24: President Gen Pervez Musharraf on Monday stressed the need to promote Pakistani art and culture in order to project a softer image of the country.

According to a statement, President Musharraf said efforts to promote Pakistan's rich and diverse culture would help preserve its heritage and improve the country's image abroad.

He stated this at the formal launching of the National Academy of Performing Arts in Karachi. Renowned personality in the field of art and culture Zia Mohyuddin is heading the academy set up on the initiative of the president.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Mohyuddin said there was an overwhelming response to courses offered by the academy from people representing all walks of life. As a result of which the academy had to increase the number of students from an initial enrolment of 100 to 120, Mr Mohyuddin said.

The president was informed that the academy was poised to commence two year courses in various disciplines of music, including instrumental, classical, semi-classical and pop as well as theatre and drama from next month for which necessary arrangements had already been made.