ISLAMABAD, May 10: A ‘Kyrgyz Corner’ depicting culture, arts and traditions of the Kyrgyz Republic has been created at the Pakistan National Museum of Ethnology, popularly known as Heritage Museum, in Islamabad.

The corner has been specified on the occasion of 20th anniversary of diplomatic between Pakistan and Kyrgyz Republic.

The inaugural ceremony was held at Shakarparian under the aegis of Lok Virsa and Embassy of Kyrgyz Republic.

Samina Khalid Ghurki, Federal Minister for National Heritage & Integration was the chief guest. Alik Orozov, Kyrgyz Ambassador to Pakistan also attended the ceremony.

While inaugurating the Kyrgyz cultural corner, Ms Ghurki said: “Pakistan attaches high importance to its relations with Central Asian States (CAS) particularly with Kyrgyzstan. Both the countries enjoy very cordial and brotherly ties that are growing day-by-day.

The creation of the Kyrgyz cultural corner will certainly enhance this friendly relationship.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan said: “Our countries are united not only by geographical proximity but also by common historical roots. Our people are attracted to each other. About 90 years ago, some of our compatriots were forced to move to Pakistan.

Now they live in Gilgit and Rawalpindi. Pakistan has become their second motherland. Many Kyrgyz girls have married to Pakistanis and they have linked their fate with your country.

Approximately 1,000 young men from your country travel every year to Kyrgyzstan to get higher education.”

Marking the opening ceremony, a photographic exhibition on Kyrgyz Republic portraying folk life, architecture, scenic views as well as a Kyrgyz musical performance was organised at Lok Virsa.

A large number of people from diplomatic community, students and general public attended the event.