ECO region stretching from the Caucasus to Central Asia to South Asia is home to a staggering diversity of languages & cultures: Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid

ANKARA, Dec 12 ((Shabana Ayaz Bureau Chief Sabah News)): The Economic Cooperation Organization Cultural Institute (ECOCI) and the Pakistan Embassy in Ankara hosted a poetry event “From Hearts to Horizons: Urdu, Turkish, and Persian Expressions”, at Pakistan Embassy International Study Group in Ankara.

The event which brought together poets, literary enthusiasts, and diplomats from across the ECO member states showcased the rich literary traditions of Urdu, Turkish, and Persian languages and deep cultural, historical, and civilizational linkages that bind the peoples of the ECO region. The program included poetry readings in all three languages, accompanied by translations to ensure the wide-reaching message of cultural unity.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye Dr. Yousaf Junaid welcomed the guests along with Dr. Saad Sikander Khan, President ECOCI. Ambassador of Iran Mohammad Hassan Habibollah Zadeh, Executive Director ECO Educational Institute Dr. AbdulKarim Sadeghdoost, academicians and diplomats from ECO region were in attendance.

In his speech, Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid highlighted that ECO region, stretching from the Caucasus to Central Asia to South Asia, is home to a staggering diversity of languages and cultures. “Poets, saints and writers of our region have carried forward the messages of wisdom, peace, and resilience that had shaped the cultural identity of our peoples. Whether we turn to the great works of Omar Khayyam, the spiritual guidance from Masnavi of Maulana Rumi, timeless verses of Mirza Ghalib, the thought-provoking poetry of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the passionate work of Mehmet Akif Ersoy, or the contemporary voices from our region, we find messages that resonate not just with the people of this area, but with all of humanity,” he said.

Ambassador Junaid emphasized on the importance of cultural diplomacy in the contemporary world divided by geopolitical and ideological tensions. He stressed that ECO region must continue to place a premium on cultural exchange, on nurturing the voices of our writers and poets, and cultivating critical thinking, and creativity. ‘In the 21st century, as our region becomes more interconnected through trade, technology, and communication, the cultural bonds that unite us are more important than ever. Our collective future depends not just on economic growth, but on the cultivation of a shared vision rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration’, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of Iran Mohammad Hassan Habibollah Zadeh stated that the event was a powerful reminder of how literature could bridge diverse cultures, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation between nations. While appreciating the efforts of Pakistan Embassy and ECOCI for organizing the event, he stated that more events highlighting our common literary heritage should be arranged in future.

While underscoring the significance of the event, President ECOCI, Dr. Saad Sikander Khan stated that the event reflected on the common heritage, shared through literary traditions. He highlighted that Urdu, Turkish, and Persian poetry has not only enriched our lives but also strengthened the bonds of friendship, cooperation, and peace among the ECO member states.