(Tokyo, December 07, 2023): An group of Buddhism professors, monks, business leaders, travel agents, and media figures gathered today at the Embassy of Pakistan for a Gandhara Seminar. The event, hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan, Tokyo, aimed to highlight and strengthen the cultural and economic ties between Pakistan and Japan.
In his remarks, Ambassador Tarar emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations that transcends geographical proximity. He touched upon the countries' fruitful collaboration covering trade, technology, academia, tourism, and more.
The Ambassador also spotlighted Pakistan's treasured Gandhara civilization, which thrived for over a millennium in the region that now comprises northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan. This seminal Buddhist center was instrumental in disseminating Buddhist art, architecture and beliefs across Central and East Asia. Remnants of this influential civilization, including thousands of artifacts, archaeological sites, and iconic Buddha statues crafted in Greco-Buddhist style, continue to attract visitors and researchers of Buddhist heritage.
Ambassador Tarar invited the Japanese guests to explore Pakistan’s rich cultural landscape, hidden gems, and legendary hospitality for themselves. He closed by reinforcing the shared values of craftsmanship, tradition and intercultural appreciation that form a solid bedrock for stronger Pakistan-Japan ties moving forward.
The seminar offered attendees an impactful glimpse into Pakistan’s enduring Buddhist history and its intersection with present-day Pakistan-Japan collaboration. It served as a starting point for further cultural and economic exchange between the longstanding partners.