Islamabad, 22 June 2026: His Excellency Mr. Yusuf Sharifzoda, Ambassador of the Republic of Tajikistan to Pakistan, called on Prof. Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL). Mr. Maruf Abdurahmon, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Tajikistan was also present during the meeting.
The meeting focused on the promotion of literary, historical, cultural, and academic relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan, exploring avenues of mutual cooperation and discussing prospects for joint literary and research initiatives.
During the discussion, H.E. Mr. Yusuf Sharifzoda described Pakistan and Tajikistan as “one nation,” bound together by centuries-old cultural, intellectual, and civilizational ties. He emphasized that the cultural and historical heritage found in Pakistan constitutes a shared legacy and asset of both countries, underscoring the need for joint efforts to preserve, promote, and pass it on to future generations.
The Ambassador also expressed profound admiration and reverence for the Poet-Philosopher of the East, Allama Muhammad Iqbal. He noted that hundreds of people in Tajikistan have memorized Kulliyat-e-Iqbal and that Iqbal enjoys an exceptionally high spiritual and intellectual status in the country.
He remarked that Iqbal’s thought remains alive among the people of Tajikistan and continues to serve as a bridge strengthening the intellectual and cultural bonds between the two nations.
H.E. Mr. Yusuf Sharifzoda extended a special invitation to Prof. Dr. Najeeba Arif to participate in an international conference scheduled to be held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, in October 2026. He expressed the hope that she would not only attend the conference but also present a scholarly paper on the occasion.
Prof. Dr. Najeeba Arif stated that Pakistan and Tajikistan must work together at literary and cultural levels to further strengthen their historical, cultural, and literary ties. She emphasized that the promotion of joint literary projects, translation initiatives, academic exchanges, and literary delegations is essential for building a better future and fostering intellectual and cultural harmony in the region.
The meeting also included discussions on introducing the literary heritage of both countries to wider international audiences, promoting translation activities, undertaking collaborative research projects, and exploring new opportunities for literary and cultural cooperation. Both sides agreed that literature and culture play a vital role in strengthening people-to-people contacts and enhancing mutual understanding.
The meeting concluded in a warm and cordial atmosphere. On this occasion, H.E. Mr. Yusuf Sharifzoda presented a commemorative gift from Tajikistan to Prof. Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, while the Chairperson presented him with her publications as well as selected publications of PAL.
