Pak–Tajik Festival Brings Two Nations Together in Islamabad

News Desk 

Islamabad: The opening ceremony of the Pak–Tajik Cultural Festival is scheduled for Thursday at the Convention Centre, as Pakistan and Tajikistan launch their first-ever joint cultural celebration.

Federal Minister for the National Heritage and Culture Division, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, on Wednesday received a high-level cultural delegation from Tajikistan at Islamabad International Airport, led by Ms. Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan.

During a meeting between the Federal Minister and the Tajik Minister, both sides agreed to strengthen bilateral relations through cultural diplomacy.

The two-day festival, to be held from December 19–20 (Friday and Saturday) at Lok Virsa, is organized by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) and the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture.

The event will showcase the rich traditions, artistic excellence, and culinary heritage of both nations, transforming Lok Virsa into a hub of cross-cultural exchange. Daily activities, from noon to 8:00 pm, include live artisan demonstrations, exhibitions of traditional handicrafts, folk music and dance performances, theatre, and authentic Pakistani and Tajik cuisine. Cultural seminars highlighting shared heritage will also be held.

Special programming includes film screenings on Friday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Farsi language seminar on Saturday during the same hours.

Renowned Tajik artists Noziya Karomatullo and Muhammadrafi Karomatullo will perform during the festival. Noziya Karomatullo is a recipient of the Medal “Hizmati Shoista”, while Muhammadrafi Karomatullo holds the title of Zasluzhenny Artist of Tajikistan. Their performances are expected to enthrall audiences.

Organized as a family-friendly event, the Pak–Tajik Cultural Festival emphasizes the spirit of friendship and mutual respect between the two countries, highlighting the role of culture in building bridges and fostering future cooperation.