TAXILA: Member of the US President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts (PACA)Shahid Ahmed Khan on Tuesday expressed admiration for the impressive collection at Taxila Museum and lauded the dedicated efforts of the Directorate General of Archaeology, Punjab, in preserving the rich cultural heritage.

He was speaking during his visit to the Taxila Museum where he was briefed about the various artifacts preserved there. Officials of Taxila Museum led by Anjum Dara welcomed the delegates and briefed them about the museum and the archaeological sites.

Talking to newsmen, Mr Khan said the aim of his visit was to explore potential in expanding ties in the field of art and culture. He said cordial relations between the two countries dates back to many decades, adding that the US wanted to strengthen relations in the field of culture.

He also rang the Taxila Museum’s ‘Peace Bell’ during his visit, which symbolised peace and goodwill.

The bell had been installed by the Thai government and inaugurated by Chief Buddhist Monk of Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand Most Venerable Arayawangso in November 2019.

A reception was also organised for Mr Khan by Member Advisory Board Pakistan Research Centre for Community with Shared Future Zaildar Ahsan Shah.

The US official also took a round of the museum and showed keen interest in the artifacts, statues of Buddha and disciples as well as articles of everyday use.

Anjum Dara informed the adviser that Taxila valley contained the ruins of one of South Asia’s most ancient Buddhist universities, which dated back to the 3rd century BC, referring to different sites listed on Unesco cultural heritage list.

He said some of the artifacts were more than 2,000 years old when the Buddhist monks used to live and tread these paths.

Published in Dawn, January 17th, 2024