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ISLAMABAD, Jan 14 (APP):Pakistan and Jordan on Wednesday agreed to further strengthen their long-standing relations by expanding cooperation in culture, heritage, and people-to-people exchanges, as the federal government steps up efforts to use cultural diplomacy as a bridge between nations.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi and Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Jordan, Major General (R) Khurram Sarfraz Khan, at the National Heritage and Culture Division.
Secretary National Heritage and Culture Division, Asad Rehman Gillani was also present on the occasion.
During the meeting, both sides held a detailed exchange of views on enhancing Pakistan–Jordan relations through cultural collaboration and diplomatic engagement. The federal minister said that following the “Marka-e-Haq,” Pakistan has gained renewed respect and recognition at the global level, adding that the international community is now viewing Pakistan with greater appreciation and that many countries are keen to further strengthen their relations with Pakistan.
Highlighting practical aspects of bilateral ties, Secretary Asad Rehman Gillani noted that the number of Pakistanis traveling to Jordan remains relatively low and stressed the need to facilitate visa procedures for Pakistani citizens. Ambassador-designate Khurram Sarfraz Khan said there are several factors behind the limited Pakistani presence in Jordan; however, he pointed out that Jordan hosts the shrines of a number of Prophets and Companions (RA), which hold deep religious significance and attract strong interest among Pakistani visitors.
Both sides underscored cultural cooperation as an effective and sustainable means of strengthening bilateral relations.
The ambassador-designate said that heritage and culture serve as powerful tools to build connections between nations, adding that Pakistan–Jordan relations date back to the early years of Pakistan’s independence and can be further deepened through structured cultural collaboration.
Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said Pakistan regularly hosts cultural weeks of various countries and proposed organizing a Jordan Cultural Week in Pakistan to promote mutual understanding and people-to-people contacts.
Appreciating Pakistani craftsmanship, the ambassador-designate said Pakistan’s handicrafts — particularly the intricate woodwork of Chiniot — are admired worldwide. On the occasion, Secretary Asad Rehman Gillani briefed him on Pakistan’s regional handicrafts, rich cultural heritage, and the work of local artisans, noting that Pakistani handicrafts, artworks, and cultural products could be showcased in Jordan through exhibitions.
The secretary further observed that while Pakistan and Jordan enjoy strong relations at the governmental level, there is a need to further strengthen ties at the public level. The ambassador-designate praised the creativity and potential of Pakistani youth, saying the younger generation possesses innovative and entrepreneurial ideas.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Secretary Asad Rehman Gillani proposed organizing a Pakistan–Jordan Furniture Expo in Jordan to introduce and promote Pakistani wood carving and handicrafts at the international level.