‘All Flags Together’ brings diverse cultures together

Islamabad : Aftab ur Rehman Rana, the managing director of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), in his presentation, highlighted the rich potential of tourism in Pakistan.

He said Pakistan is one of those countries in the world which are blessed with a diverse inventory of tourism attractions which are based on the unique endowments of natural landscape features and its rich culture and heritage.

Thanks to its historical, geographical and ethnic diversity, Pakistan's culture is a melting pot of Persian, Afghan, Indian, Central Asian, South Asian and Western Asian influences. Rana said, tourism plays a significant role in promoting cultural diplomacy by facilitating cross-cultural interactions, fostering mutual understanding, and building positive international relations. It promotes people to people contact so very strongly serves as a bridge for cross-cultural interactions, enhancing mutual understanding, and positively representing the country's rich cultural heritage.

The Secretary Youth, Culture and Tourism Midhat Shehzad of the AJK government said: Cultural diplomacy doesn’t make alliances of powers or solve geopolitical problems with wars but it is a journey through souls which wins through minds and hearts. It is through languages, literature, artists, artisan, students, food, dresses, heritage and traditions. Let’s make it clear through a region’s old story of cultural linkages and harmony.

Himalayan Karakoram region encompassing China, Tibet, Central Asian Republics, Afghanistan and subcontinent or South Asia even Russia as well. Earlier, Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director and founder of All Flags Together Munir Ahmed briefed the audience about the objectives of the event.

He said the cultural showcasing helps understanding each other and closing the gaps while working in collaboration leads to unity for peace and development. We shall aim to understand each other’s national heritage and the valuable work for peace and development.

The AFT 2023 has provided different national and international stakeholders to come together and share their thoughts, culture and work.