Pakistani Envoy Urges Community to Promote Urdu and Cultural Heritage in the US

Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has urged the Pakistani diaspora to actively promote Urdu literature and the nation’s rich cultural heritage among future generations.

Speaking at a tribute event for renowned poet Asadullah Khan Ghalib in Woodbridge, Virginia, the ambassador encouraged community members to utilize the Pakistani Embassy’s resources to organize functions that celebrate Urdu and cultural traditions.

The event, organized by Bazm-e-Harf-o-Sukhan, a subsidiary of Muslim Response USA, was attended by prominent literary figures, community leaders, and media representatives.

Urdu as an Identity Symbol

Highlighting Ghalib’s intellectual depth, Ambassador Sheikh emphasized the need to preserve and pass on his literary legacy to younger generations. He stressed that modern technology should be used to protect and promote Urdu as well as Pakistani cultural heritage.

“Urdu is an integral part of our identity, and its promotion and development will strengthen Pakistaniyat,” he stated.

Public Diplomacy and Cultural Initiatives

Discussing the global promotion of Urdu and Pakistani culture, the envoy underscored that raising awareness about Pakistan’s heritage was a key aspect of public diplomacy.

He noted that the Pakistani Embassy had recently hosted an Islamic calligraphy exhibition to highlight Pakistani arts and literature. Additionally, all such events would be documented as ‘Embassy Papers’ to ensure their inclusion in historical records.

At the event’s conclusion, Ambassador Sheikh congratulated Dr. Arif Mahmood and Bazm-e-Harf-o-Sukhan’s leadership for their efforts in organizing the event. As Chief Guest, he also honored several individuals for their social and professional contributions.