People-to-people contacts seen central to peace

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Increased people-to-people contacts among Central Asian states are necessary to achieve lasting peace and prosperity in the region, speakers at a seminar said.

Frequent exchanges of delegations at different levels were suggested to banish terrorism and extremism and promote regional peace.

The seminar -- Festival for Peace and Regional Convergence -- was organised by Mediothek Afghanistan in collaboration with the German Embassy at Lok Virsa in Islamabad.

, deputy chief of mission at the Afghan embassy, assured Kabul organisations.

Coordinator of Mediothek Muhammad Atif Faqirzadah said they planned arranging more workshops, seminars and festivals in Tajikistan, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Director of Media House Dr Shahjahan Baig said: "We share strong cultural, geographical, political and religious bonds with Afghanistan.”

Shahjahan added terrorism had been imposed upon the peace-loving region -- home to great poets, scholars, educationists and entrepreneurs,

Chairman of Pakistan Press Council Dr Salahuddin said: "Without peace, we cannot get education or develop our economies. People-to-people contacts are essential to bring the regional states closer.”

Deputy Ambassador of Tajikistan Shah Ali Jononov  asked media houses to play a proactive role in promoting peace and preaching love.

Singers from Tajikistan, Pakistan and Afghanistan enthralled the participants with song in their respective languages.

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