Honorable Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, spoke at the Sixth World Forum On Intercultural Dialogue in Baku, Azerbaijan, on the theme “The Role and Best Practices of the Legislature in the Protection of Cultural Heritage.” In his speech, he emphasized the importance of legislative bodies in safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage.
Legislatures enact robust legal frameworks that not only preserve cultural heritage but also address important aspects such as conservation methodologies, adequate funding mechanisms, and stringent penalties for any acts of damage or destruction.The Deputy Speaker acknowledged the intrinsic value of cultural heritage and the myriad threats it faces in today’s interconnected world.
He emphasized the need for proactive and concerted measures to ensure its protection and longevity. He also highlighted the importance of fostering collaborative partnerships with stakeholders from governmental agencies, cultural institutions, local communities, and international organizations.
This collaborative ethos is fundamental in developing comprehensive strategies that holistically address the multifaceted challenges facing cultural heritage preservation.Citing Pakistan’s rich tapestry of cultural heritage, ranging from ancient civilizations to vibrant regional cultures, the Deputy Speaker lauded the nation’s legislative strides in enacting key legal frameworks such as the Antiquities Act of 1975, Pakistan Environmental Protection Act of 1997, and various provincial ordinances aimed at safeguarding heritage sites and regulating archaeological endeavors. The Deputy Speaker opened his speech by thanking the organizers and the government of Azerbaijan for organizing a successful event and emphasized the profound significance of fostering mutual understanding among diverse cultures as a cornerstone in preserving our collective cultural heritage.
