Islamabad, August 5, 2026: Pakistan and Spain on Wednesday agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in culture, archaeology, heritage preservation, education and people-to-people exchanges during a meeting between Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi and Spanish Ambassador Carlos Aragon Gil de la Serna in Islamabad.
During the courtesy call, Minister Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said expanding cultural and historical cooperation with Spain remains a priority for the government. He emphasized the importance of developing joint initiatives in the fields of Gandhara heritage, archaeology, museums and cultural exchanges to deepen bilateral ties.
The minister said Pakistan was keen to launch collaborative projects aimed at preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage, adding that cultural diplomacy serves as an effective bridge for strengthening understanding and friendship between nations.
Highlighting one of Pakistan’s premier cultural events, he described the annual Lok Mela as an ideal platform for showcasing diverse traditions and fostering closer interaction between the peoples of Pakistan and Spain. He invited Spain to participate actively in the festival.
Aurangzeb Khan Khichi also noted the growing interest in the philosophy and ideas of national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Spain. He said Pakistan looked forward to expanding cooperation in Iqbal studies, translations of his works into Spanish and academic collaboration between universities in the two countries.
“Culture is an effective means of bringing nations closer,” the minister said, expressing confidence that enhanced cultural diplomacy would further strengthen Pakistan-Spain relations.
Spanish Ambassador Carlos Aragon Gil de la Serna praised Pakistan’s rich historical and cultural heritage, describing it as unparalleled, and expressed Spain’s strong interest in expanding cooperation in culture, archaeology, literature, museums and education.
The ambassador said the philosophical works of Allama Muhammad Iqbal were being translated into Spanish, noting that the poet maintained a profound intellectual and historical connection with Spain.
He also praised Pakistan’s Gandhara civilization, saying he was deeply impressed by the remarkable archaeological treasures preserved at the museums in Peshawar and Taxila.
The envoy further acknowledged the positive contribution of the Pakistani community residing in Spain in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting greater understanding between the two countries.
Both sides agreed to continue close collaboration to promote cultural exchanges, preserve shared heritage and enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest, reinforcing the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Spain.
