Danish Ambassador Appreciates Pakistan's Cultural Richness

Mohammad Ali (@ChaudhryMAli88) Published November 11, 2016 | 07:00 PM

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Nov, 2016 ) : Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan Ole Thonke has said that Pakistan is culturally a rich country as it possesses a diversity of cultural goods and services that has a huge potential for being harnessed for economic, social and sustainable development.

He stated this during his visit to Hashoo Foundation office in Gilgit-Baltistan, said a press release issued here on Friday. Hashoo Foundation is a partner of the Danish Centre for Culture and Development (CKU), working to promote art and culture in Pakistan.

Representatives from the Hunza Arts and Culture Council, Ghizer Arts and Culture Council and KADO officials, including local artisans were also present on the occasion. The Ambassador was apprised about the deep-rooted imprints, which the Danish supported programme is having on the cultural canvas of the region.

Bulbul Jan Shams, Regional Programme Manager Hashoo Foundation highlighted that Denmark's support had played an important role in reviving old cultural festivals for social and sectarian harmony.

Ambassador Thonke appreciated the richness of the region stating that his recent visit to the mountains of the Gilgit- Baltistan and meeting with local people had truly impressed him. "Local culture and traditions are important part of any society as it is the root to how societies are built and how people form opinions and build relations.

"Denmark fully believes that art and culture are important means to bridge differences, create tolerance, and ultimately provide economic opportunities for communities as well as individuals", he added.

He said the government of Denmark was proud of supporting art and culture in Pakistan. He also appreciated the local government's efforts to facilitate and fully participate in the cultural activities supported by the programme.

"Gilgit-Baltistan is indeed a jewel in the art and cultural sector of Pakistan. It can become a driving force for economic empowerment, benefiting local communities and Pakistan at large", Thonke said.