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KPK
Evening of Conversation Held in Honour of Professor Nasir Ali Syed
Amjad Hadi Yousafzai
PESHAWAR : A prestigious literary gathering was held in Peshawar in honour of internationally acclaimed poet, short-story writer, playwright and columnist Professor Nasir Ali Syed under the title “An Evening of Conversation.” A large number of renowned poets, writers, journalists, intellectuals and literary enthusiasts attended the event and paid tribute to his remarkable contributions to literature and scholarship.
The event was jointly organised by the Syndicate of Writers Pakistan and Horizon at Haq Baba Auditorium, Ibadat Hospital, Peshawar. Justice (Retd.) Syed Yahya Zahid Gilani, Sajjada Nashin of Astana-e-Aalia Syed Shah Qabool Auliya, presided over the gathering, while renowned poet Professor Zaigham Hassan conducted the proceedings.
Internationally acclaimed psychologist Professor Dr Khalid Mufti and distinguished literary figures Mushtaq Ahmed Shabab, Yousaf Aziz Zahid, Professor Dr Sohail Ahmed, Dr Noor Hakeem Jilani, Aziz Aijaz, Dr Khadim Hussain, Saeed Paras, Professor Asma Tahir and Dr Ali Ehsan Mufti addressed the gathering as guests of honour.
The speakers held an extensive discussion on Professor Nasir Ali Syed’s multifaceted contributions to literature, arts, culture, social development and public welfare. They highlighted his creative abilities, intellectual depth and national and international literary recognition. They observed that through his poetry, writings and intellectual pursuits, Professor Nasir Ali Syed had played a significant role in promoting literature and culture.
In his presidential address, Justice (Retd.) Syed Yahya Zahid Gilani highlighted various aspects of the guest of honour’s personality, intellectual stature and literary achievements. He also appreciated the tradition of recognising and celebrating the contributions of distinguished personalities during their lifetime.
In his remarks, Professor Nasir Ali Syed shed detailed light on various social, academic, philanthropic and cultural issues. He expressed gratitude to the organisers, speakers and participants for arranging the gathering and honouring his literary journey. A special poetic tribute was also presented in his honour.
Prominent writers Nusrat Naseem, Maryam Khan and Engineer Atiq-ur-Rehman could not attend the event due to personal commitments. However, they sent congratulatory messages for the guest of honour, which were shared with the audience.
The organisers also presented a commemorative shield to the chairperson of the event, Justice (Retd.) Syed Yahya Zahid Gilani. The gathering concluded with an elaborate tea reception for the participants.
Literary and academic circles described the “Evening of Conversation” as a significant and memorable addition to Peshawar’s literary and cultural activities. They observed that such events not only recognise the contributions of distinguished scholars and writers but also help connect younger generations with intellectual, creative and literary traditions.
The gathering stood out for its dignified atmosphere, meaningful intellectual exchanges and appreciation of literary excellence, making it an occasion expected to remain memorable for years to come.
National
Natalie Baker, Nawabzada Magsi Unveil Mehrgarh Museum Plaque
PROVINCE REPORT
KARACHI: U.S. Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Natalie Baker joined Balochistan Parliamentary Secretary Nawabzada Mir Muhammad Zarain Khan Magsi and Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society (SEAS) leadership today to mark the successful completion of the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) project for the Mehrgarh Museum of Balochistan.
This project represents the first-ever AFCP initiative in Balochistan. Implemented together with SEAS and the Balochistan Culture Department, the project preserved ancient Neolithic and archaeological artifacts from the historic Mehrgarh civilization, upgraded museum curation to international standards, expanded community outreach, and trained local heritage professionals to ensure long-term collection care.
The AFCP footprint now spans all four provinces of Pakistan, reinforcing the United States’ enduring commitment to protecting Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage. Speaking at the ceremony, CDA Baker highlighted the power of American expertise to deliver tangible, lasting results and foster trust between the peoples of both nations.
“Today, we are thrilled that, through American excellence in museums and heritage preservation, the Mehrgarh Museum of Balochistan will showcase the 8,000-year-old Mehrgarh civilization and many others.” CDA Baker stated. “Projects like this one show what American expertise delivers: lasting, tangible results that preserve history, create jobs, and strengthen local communities. Together, the United States and Pakistan are making real progress in protecting this remarkable legacy.”
During the ceremony, CDA Baker, Parliamentary Secretary Magsi, and project leads Dr. Asma Ibrahim and Dr. Kaleemullah Lashari unveiled a commemorative plaque that will stand at the entrance of the Mehrgarh Museum in Quetta ahead of its official reopening later this month.
