OTTAWA, Jan 8 (APP): High Commissioner of Pakistan to Canada Muhammad Saleem on Thursday received renowned Pakistani artist Khalil Najmi here, wherein he underscored the importance of art as a powerful instrument of cultural diplomacy.
Khalil Najmi, who is internationally recognized for his distinctive medallion portrait art, shared insights on his artistic journey and the growing international appreciation of medallion portrait art as a medium for preserving history, celebrating identity and fostering dialogue among cultures.
Najmi also presented a masterpiece portrait of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to the high commissioner.
High Commissioner Saleem appreciated Najmi’s immense contribution in promoting Pakistan’s artistic heritage through medallion portraiture, a unique form that blends classical technique with contemporary expression.
The discussion highlighted promoting people-to-people exchanges and projecting Pakistan’s soft image through visual art.
The envoy highlighted that artists played a vital role in building bridges among societies.
He said that cultural exhibitions, artist exchanges and collaboration with counterpart institutions abroad were key pillars of Pakistan’s public diplomacy initiatives.