Australian High Commissioner lauds PM Task Force for promoting Gandhara

ISLAMABAD: Australian High Commissioner in Islamabad, H.E. Neil Hawkins, has shown keen interest in promotion of Gandhara tourism in Pakistan. In a meeting with Dr Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, Minister of State and Chairman PM’s Taskforce on Gandhara Tourism, he was informed about the efforts and various initiatives for attracting international tourists. The High Commissioner was of the view that the rich cultural heritage sites of Pakistan has huge potential in bringing people of Pakistan closer with the international community.
Dr Ramesh Vankwani, while expressing his views, stated that the various archaeological sites, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and Gandhara artifacts of Pakistan hold immense historical, cultural, and religious significance across the world. “Gandhara heritage sites are a testimony to Pakistan’s remarkable Gandhara heritage while offering immense potential for religious and cultural diplomacy as well as tourism,” the Minister emphasized.
The High Commissioner also lauded Dr Ramesh Vankwani for organizing the International Gandhara Symposium in which several international monks and delegates from different countries participated.
On the occasion, various matters of bilateral interest related to minorities’ rights, cultural diplomacy and faith tourism also came under discussion.
Today, it is believed that up to 7% of world population (approximately 520 million) is composed of Buddhists whereas a good number of followers of Buddha also reside in Australia.