“Karachi’s emergence as a global city of art and intellect is the result of unwavering efforts to nurture creativity and dialogue,” says Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah at the 17th Aalmi Urdu Conference.
KARACHI: The 17th Aalmi Urdu Conference, a prominent event on Pakistan’s cultural calendar, opened with much enthusiasm at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi. The conference, dedicated to celebrating the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Urdu and regional languages, attracted a distinguished gathering of literary figures, diplomats, artists, and enthusiasts from around the world.
The Honourable Chief Minister, in his address, highlighted the significance of the event as a celebration of Pakistan’s diverse cultural tapestry. He commended the pivotal role played by the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, which has become a hub of creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange over the past 70 years.
Praising the leadership of Arts Council President Mohammad Ahmed Shah, the Chief Minister acknowledged the transformative initiatives that have placed Karachi on the global cultural map. “From hosting the 38-day World Culture Festival with participation from 44 countries to expanding the Aalmi Urdu Conference beyond its traditional confines, these efforts reflect Karachi’s emergence as a global center of art and intellect,” he said.
The event also paid tribute to the region’s literary diversity, honoring authors from Sindhi, Saraiki, Punjabi, Pashto, and Balochi languages with Lifetime Achievement Awards. This recognition underscored the Arts Council’s commitment to preserving and promoting linguistic diversity while fostering unity among the country’s communities.
The Chief Minister also shared his optimism about the future, outlining the Council’s ambitious plans, including global outreach initiatives and a larger cultural festival next year with participation from nearly every country. He reaffirmed the Sindh Government’s unwavering support for the Arts Council’s vision of advancing cultural diplomacy, engaging youth, and nurturing intellectual growth.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister praised Karachi’s significant contributions to Pakistan’s cultural and intellectual legacy and emphasized the need for continued efforts to nurture the city’s youth through art and culture, ensuring a more inclusive and prosperous future.
The Aalmi Urdu Conference continues to stand as a vibrant testament to Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage, bringing together diverse voices to celebrate the power of language, art, and unity.
