Pakistan Embassy Launches Nepali Book on Pakistan’s Buddhist Heritage
Kathmandu – In a significant step towards enhancing cultural diplomacy and people-to-people (P2P) engagement, the Embassy of Pakistan in Nepal today hosted the launch ceremony of a Nepali-language book titled ‘Pakistanka Boudha Sampadaharu’, focused on Pakistan’s rich Buddhist heritage. The book is authored by renowned Nepali scholar Mr. Om Charan Amatya.
The event was graced by Hon. Mr. Bhim Prasad Acharya, Member of Parliament (CPN-UML), as Chief Guest. In his address, Mr. Acharya underlined the importance of cultural heritage in fostering meaningful P2P connections. He described Buddhist heritage as a “shared legacy” between Nepal and Pakistan and emphasized the need for deepening connectivity in order to preserve and promote these spiritual and cultural treasures.
Delivering a special virtual address, Mr. A. Imran Shaukat, Pakistan’s Ambassador on Buddhist Heritage Promotion, shared insights into the “Pakistan’s Buddhist Heritage Promotion Initiative” and its objectives to introduce Pakistan’s historical Buddhist sites to the world.
Author Mr. Om Charan Amatya highlighted key Buddhist sites in Pakistan—such as Takht-i-Bahi, Taxila, and Swat—and their spiritual connection to Nepal. He expressed hope that the book would inspire further research and pilgrimage among Nepali Buddhists and scholars.
In his remarks, H.E. Mr. Abrar H Hashmi, Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to preserving and sharing its cultural heritage. He also commended Mr. Amatya’s scholarly contribution and expressed hope that the book would strengthen historical awareness and promote regional cultural tourism.
Special Guests on the occasion included H.E. U Myo Myint Maung, Ambassador of Myanmar and Ms. Chameera Munasinghe, Charge d’Affaires, Sri Lanka. Besides, venerable monks and Buddhist scholars, political leaders, journalists, civil society members and officials of Pakistan Embassy and their families also attended the event. Moreover, various universities and think tanks of Pakistan attended the event online.