Pakistan seeks Chinese assistance to preserve relics of Bhasha Dam

By Masood Sattar Khan
(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistan has sought Chinese assistance to preserve cultural relics near the under-construction Bhasha Dam.

The Federal Secretary, National Heritage & Culture Division, Nausheen Javaid Amjad, informed the Chinese Cultural Counselor, Zhang Heqing, during a recent meeting in Islamabad. 

She stated that, for the preservation of cultural relics in the construction site of Bhasha Dam, building an underground museum was a huge project, which was also very expensive. 

“The Chinese friends will be approached in this regard to provide the necessary assistance. Pakistan is rich in cultural heritage, which should be well preserved, excavated, restored, and exhibited. Both Pakistan and China should strengthen the exchange and cooperation in this area,” Nausheen Javaid observed. 

She added that the Chinese people were fond of the Gandhara Civilization and the 19 antiquities exhibited in China have attracted many visitors. 

She remarked that the creative cultural industry played an important role in the social economy with China having done it very well and was willing to cooperate with Pakistan to carry out workshops and seminars. 

Zhang Heqing reckoned that both sides appreciated mutual support in the fight against COVID-19, fully demonstrating yet again the brotherly friendship between Pakistan and China.