Eminent archaeologists and scholars shared their research work in rich Gandhara region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan, and discussed latest discoveries and its impacts on this region, as three-day International conference, successfully concluded on Sunday.
A total of 43 research papers, including 11 foreign, and 32 locals, presented by scholars from various federal and provincial institutions of archaeology, and abroad.
The conference on titled: 'Recent Discoveries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and its impacts on region', held under auspices of Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at local hotel in Islamabad, which formally inaugurated by Ambassador of Republic of Korea, Jong Hwan Song, and KP Minister for Archaeology, Museums, Sports and Youth Affairs.
On the second day, KP Chief Minister Pervez Khattak participated in the conference as chief guest. Besides, high officials from federal and provincial ministries, Dr Abdul Samad, Director Archaeology and Museums Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, archaeologists, researchers, students, and foreign delegations from US, UK, Germany, Italy, Korea, and Afghanistan also attended the conference.
Researchers in their various papers have highlighted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is rich in Gandhara artefacts and sculptures and other Buddhists remains, wherein found new discoveries at various archaeological sites. They stressed the need of using modern techniques and latest research methods, while digging at archaeological relics and sites.
Dr Abdul Samad at inaugural session briefed the participants about the rich archaeological heritage of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying that a comprehensive policy being evolved to preserve and protect the archaeological sites and places in the province.
Jong Hwan Song shed light on culture bound with Pakistan and Republic of Korea, and termed the conference will give further boost to culture relations between two countries.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, Pervez Khattak said his government is keenly focused to preserve and conserve the rich archaeological heritage in the province. He said efforts are underway to promote archaeological tourism, and assured government would provide all facilitate to religious tourists while their visit in this region.
On the third and last day of the conference, the participants visited the various archaeological monastery and sites, including Bhamala Stupa site, in Khanpur, Julian in Haripur Taxila and others.