Pakistan Embassy in Ankara promotes tourism

ANKARA

Pakistan’s Embassy in Turkey on Monday showed a documentary to promote cultural and touristic attractions of the country.

“Amazing Pakistan" focuses on the country's natural beauties like Mahodand Lake and historical spots like Dharmarajika Stupa.

"Pakistan is the crucible of three of the great religions of the world Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism -- and cradle of another, Sikhism," Pakistan's Ambassador to Ankara Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi said at the event.

Qazi highlighted Pakistan's diverse cultural heritage, and rich historical, religious and spiritual background, adding that the country also houses dozens of shrines of sufis and saints "spreading the message of love and pluralism."

"Pakistan is the cradle of three ancient civilizations -- Mehrgarh, Indus Valley and Gandhara. Experts believe that Mehrgarh, dating back to 7000 BC, was one of the earliest sites with evidence of farming and herding in South Asia," he added.

Turkish Deputy Culture and Tourism Minister Ozgul Ozkan Yavuz stressed Pakistan's tourism potential "with its rich history and culture".

"The highest mountains of the world and its marvelous nature makes Pakistan an enormous destination in mountain and nature tourism," he added.