KARACHI: The Sindh government on Wednesday entered into an understanding with the Italian authorities to launch joint research activities in the fields of history and archaeology, especially in connection with the historical sites of Bhambhore and Ranikot, said a statement issued here.

The signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) was held at the Sindh Archives, where director general of antiquities Manzoor Ahmed Kanasro signed the MoU on behalf of the Sindh culture department and Prof Mario Pianccentini represented the Italian government and archaeological mission of his country.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Sindh Minister for Culture, Tourism and Antiquities Syed Sardar Ali Shah said that nobody exactly knew how old the Ranikot Fort was, but through the MoU a major breakthrough was expected in this regard very soon.

MoU signed with Italian officials for joint probe into Sindh history and archaeology

“We have taken a great step forward towards knowing the age of Ranikot Fort that is also called the Great Wall of Sindh,” he said.

“The MoU between our department and the Italian consulate is aimed at exchange, cooperation and research activities within present and future programmes embarked upon by both the parties. Our main objectives are to carry out joint research activities in the fields of history and archaeology with specific regard to the sites of Bhanbhore and Ranikot.”

The signing ceremony was attended by Consul General of Italy Dr Gianluca Rubagotti, culture secretary Akbar Laghari, former secretary of archaeology Dr Kaleemullah Lashari and others.

The provincial minister said that the three-year MoU was also meant to work together for developing a common programme to train young officers of the department.

“The five-member archaeological mission of Italy will start their work from the first week of December and we hope that within two to three months we will be receiving some good news about the age of Ranikot Fort, which, till today, has been a mystery for researchers,” he added.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2017