ISLAMABAD: Danish Ambassador to Pakistan Ole Thonke has said that Pakistan possesses a diversity of cultural goods and services, which can be harnessed for economic, social and sustainable development.
During his visit to Gilgit-Baltistan, the ambassador met representatives from the Hashoo Foundation – a partner of the Danish Centre for Culture and Development (CKU) – working to promote art and culture in Pakistan.
Representatives from the Hunza Arts and Culture Council, Ghizer Arts and Culture Council and the Karakoram Area Development Organisation (KADO) apprised the ambassador of the deep-rooted imprints, which the Danish supported programme is having on the cultural canvas of
the region.
Bulbul Jan Shams, regional programme manager at the Hashoo Foundation, said the Denmark had played an important role in reviving old cultural festivals for social and sectarian harmony, which were faded away with the passage of time.
Ambassador Thonke appreciated cultural richness of the region, saying that his recent visit to GB had truly impressed him. “Local culture and traditions are important part of any society. Denmark fully believes that art and culture are important means to bridge differences, create tolerance, and ultimately to provide economic opportunities for communities as well as individuals,” said Thonke.
He said the Danish government was proud of supporting art and culture in Pakistan. He also appreciated the local government’s efforts to facilitate and fully participate in the cultural activities supported by the programme. “Gilgit-Baltistan is indeed a jewel in the art and cultural sector of Pakistan and can become a driving force for economic empowerment benefiting local communities and Pakistan at large,” he maintained.
Under the programme, several artisans have been trained on stone carving, woodcarving and traditional music. As a result of these trainings, several business groups have been formed in the region to promote local products and services.
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