Islamabad unveils ambitious cultural diplomacy agenda as preparations intensify for Pakistan’s expected SCO Chairmanship in 2027.
Pakistan has stepped up efforts to strengthen regional cultural engagement under the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), positioning cultural diplomacy as a key component of its broader strategy ahead of the country’s expected SCO Chairmanship in 2027.
The renewed commitment was highlighted during a meeting between Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi and SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev in Islamabad.
The discussions focused on expanding cultural partnerships, boosting people-to-people connectivity, and advancing preparations for a series of major cultural initiatives planned under Pakistan’s future leadership role within the regional bloc.
During the meeting, the minister emphasized that culture has emerged as a powerful instrument for fostering peace, dialogue and regional understanding among SCO member states.
He highlighted Pakistan’s diverse historical legacy, ranging from the Indus Valley and Gandhara civilizations to its Islamic heritage and rich traditions of art, crafts and folklore.
A major focus of the talks was Pakistan’s plan to leverage its upcoming SCO Chairmanship to enhance regional cultural integration.
Authorities are preparing an extensive programme of events, including the proposed designation of Lahore as the SCO Tourism and Cultural Capital for 2026-27. The initiative is expected to feature year-long cultural activities alongside complementary programmes in Islamabad and Karachi.
Officials revealed that four flagship cultural events are planned in Lahore, supported by numerous exhibitions, performances and heritage-related activities throughout the year. Diplomatic missions of SCO member states will be invited to participate through cultural showcases, artistic performances and traditional exhibitions.
Pakistan also proposed several long-term initiatives aimed at institutionalizing cultural cooperation across the SCO region. These include an SCO Museum Cooperation Network, a Digital Heritage Platform, a Youth Cultural Exchange Programme, an Archaeology Cooperation Framework and a Heritage Tourism Initiative centered on Gandhara and Silk Road civilizations.
The SCO Secretary-General welcomed Pakistan’s proactive approach and expressed support for the country’s preparations. He encouraged Islamabad to introduce innovative cultural projects that could strengthen regional cooperation while promoting tourism, heritage preservation and creative industries.
The discussions also highlighted opportunities for greater collaboration in film festivals, handicrafts exhibitions, cultural forums and tourism partnerships. Both sides agreed to deepen institutional linkages and maintain close coordination to ensure the successful implementation of SCO cultural programmes.
The meeting underscored Pakistan’s growing emphasis on cultural diplomacy as a tool for regional connectivity, positioning heritage and tourism at the center of its engagement with SCO member states in the years ahead.