SWAT / KPK : 25 Oct 2025 – A dual purpose event took place at Serena Hotel, Swat, on October 25th. The event was organized by the Honorary Swati from Italy, Dr. Luca Olivieri, and his colleague Elise Iori.
The festivities marked the 70 year anniversary of the work of the Italian Archeological Mission in Pakistan (1955 – 2025). This has been one of the longest and enduring partnerships between any two partners.
The mission has an impressive list of accomplishments under their belt including discovery and excavation of many archeological sites, compilation of 1500 publications on the region, and the current support to Pakistan to qualify the sites of Jamal Garhi and Barikot as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Another unique achievement of this mission has been their focus on local capacity building. As one speaker put it “Luca has made archeologists from local villagers”.
Along with the celebration of the 70 year partnership, the event also marked the launch of the Khyber PATH (Professions for Climate Adaptation, eco Tourism and Heritage), a project of KPK government and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation.
In his opening comments, Dr. Luca highlighted the work and acknowledged the patronage of the Royal family of Swat, which was represented by Princes Dr. Mahmud Aurangzeb and Justice Hasan Aurangzeb and Princess Zenab Adnan.
Justice Hassan presented on the history of the support of his family starting in 1955, their contributions to the field of archeology and the commitment of the family of support in the future.
Also present was Imran Shauket, who has been working with the Royal family and GOP, and as Ambassador for Buddhist Heritage Promotion for GTPL. Yali Xuan, a philanthropist who has been funding numerous activities in Swat was also present.
Many speakers recognized Dr. Samad (KPK Secretary Tourism and Arcgeology) for his tireless work in the service of archeology and tourism. Dr. Aftab Rana (MD PTDC) spoke about the work of the GOP to promote tourism of Pakistan. Many VCs of universities and notables spoke at the event. A final speaker was Stefan Baums from Munich University who highlighted his work.
The event was a testament to a truly multinational partnership comprising of GOP, KPK, local Royalty and notables, Italians, German and Chinese partners.
