TAXILA, Dec 3: European Union (EU) is ready to provide technical and financial assistance for the preservation and conservation of cultural heritage of Pakistan especially ancient Gandhara civilisation.
This was stated by deputy head of European Union delegation Pierre Mayaudon while talking to mediapersons at Taxila Museum on Saturday.
Easter Park, founding director of Gandhara Art and Culture Association and other members of EU delegation in Islamabad were also present on the occasion.
He said that the archeological treasure here was an asset for not only Pakistan but for international community as well and they should contribute their share for its better care, preservation and restoration for future generations.
He said that although Pakistan was a Muslim state, it had made laudable efforts for the better preservation and restoration of Buddhist heritage.
Responding to a question he said that EU was supporting a number of projects in education, human, social and economic development.
He said that the electoral roll computerisation project launched with the EU support would play key role in holding next general elections in transparent and error-free environment.
He said that Pakistan had been gifted with rich cultural heritage, impressive environment and galaxy of art but the lack of infrastructure and security issue was hampering flow of tourists to Pakistan.
He said that with the improvement of the image abroad and strengthening of infrastructure Pakistan could get its lost tourists. Responding to another question, he said that the EU condemned Nato attack inside Pakistani territory.
Earlier, he along with other members of the delegation visited archaeological Taxila Museum and ancient sites including Julian known as ancient Taxila University and Dharmarajika Stupa and monastery. He lauded the Pakistani government for better upkeep and preservation of the Buddhist treasurer at Taxila Museum.
He also appreciated the items displayed there.The delegates were impressed by the unique collection of antiquities at Taxila Museum and expressed their satisfaction over better preservation of ancient Buddhist sites especially Julian.
