Murad gives oath to Arts Council body

KARACHI: The Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah swore in Arts Council’s newly elected body on Monday.

Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected governing body of the Arts Council of Pakistan, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, reaffirmed the government’s support for the Arts Council’s initiatives, underscoring their role in promoting tolerance, peace, and cultural diplomacy. The minister of Culture Zulfiqar Shah and others attended.

Chief Minister Murad Shah commended the council’s president, Muhammad Ahmad Shah, and his team for their unwavering dedication to promoting art and culture, which has earned the institution a distinctive reputation on the global stage.

The Sindh CM highlighted the longstanding partnership between the government and the Arts Council, emphasising their shared commitment to democracy and public service. He credited the council with fostering a cultural renaissance through literature and art and empowering youth by organising festivals, workshops, and seminars that nurture talent and promote positivity. Shah acknowledged the significant contributions of the Arts Council, including the successful organisation of 17 International Urdu Conferences and their efforts to revive declining art forms such as Qawwali and theatre. He praised their work in supporting artists and launching initiatives like the World Culture Festival, which attracted participants from 44 countries and showcased Pakistan’s vibrant cultural heritage on the global stage.

Murad Ali Shah expressed enthusiasm for the next edition of the World Culture Festival, which would host participants from over 100 countries. He also applauded the council’s initiative to organise a global summit addressing pressing issues such as climate change, governance, economic challenges, artificial intelligence, and digitalisation. Characterising it as a ground-breaking effort, the chief minister said it would enhance Pakistan’s international image and cultural identity and open new avenues for global relations and foreign policy.

The chief minister encouraged the council to continue its cultural and social revolution, reiterating the government’s commitment to fostering an environment where arts and culture can thrive for the benefit of society and Pakistan’s global standing.