Pakistan urges revival of Silk Road spirit at UNESCO

• Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch highlights cultural diplomacy at Paris seminar

• Calls intercultural dialogue vital amid rising global polarization

• Stresses Gandhara heritage and Taxila’s historic role as Silk Road hub

• Silk Road described as bridge for ideas, culture and people-to-people ties

 PARIS: Pakistan on Thursday underscored its rich civilizational heritage and called for strengthening intercultural dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful cooperation as Permanent Delegate to UNESCO Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch addressed a seminar on “Traditions of the Silk Road and Intercultural Dialogue” at UNESCO headquarters.

The seminar was organized to mark the International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations and formed part of daylong celebrations promoting cultural diversity, dialogue and mutual understanding among nations.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Baloch highlighted the historical significance of the ancient Gandhara civilization and emphasized the pivotal role of Taxila as a major crossroads of the Silk Road, where cultures, ideas, traditions and civilizations interacted and flourished over centuries.

She noted that the Silk Road was not merely a network of trade routes but also a vital conduit for cultural exchange, intellectual engagement and people-to-people connections that fostered mutual understanding among diverse societies.

The ambassador stressed the need to revive the spirit of the Silk Road in the contemporary world by promoting dialogue, respect for cultural diversity, mutual understanding and peaceful cooperation among nations.

“In an era marked by global challenges and growing polarization, promoting intercultural dialogue and strengthening bonds among civilizations is more important than ever,” she said.

Ambassador Baloch also highlighted UNESCO’s critical role in advancing dialogue among cultures and civilizations, fostering constructive engagement and reinforcing the principles of multilateralism.

She said UNESCO’s efforts to preserve cultural heritage and promote international cooperation provide an important platform for building bridges between societies and advancing peace through mutual understanding.

The event brought together diplomats, cultural experts and representatives of member states to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Silk Road and its continued relevance in promoting dialogue and cooperation in the modern world.

As part of the celebrations, Pakistani cuisine was also showcased among the cultural traditions represented at the event, highlighting the country’s rich cultural diversity and its historical links with civilizations connected through the Silk Road.

The International Day of Dialogue among Civilizations is observed to promote mutual respect, cultural understanding and cooperation among peoples and nations, recognizing dialogue as a key instrument for peace, sustainable development and global solidarity.