Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Republic of Tajikistan, Muhammad Saeed Sarwar, has said that the universal message of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal provides a strong cultural, intellectual, and linguistic bridge between Pakistan and Tajikistan, helping to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Addressing the “Iqbal Days Ceremony” organized by Tajik National University in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistan Study Center, the ambassador emphasized that Iqbal’s philosophy remains highly relevant for regional integration and global harmony.
The ambassador expressed his gratitude to the university administration and organizers for paying tribute to the great thinker, philosopher, poet of the East, and political leader. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding academic, educational, and cultural cooperation with Tajikistan.
Highlighting the close relationship between the two countries, Ambassador Sarwar said that Pakistan and Tajikistan share deep-rooted historical, cultural, linguistic, and religious ties. He noted that Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize Tajikistan’s independence and establish diplomatic relations, and that regular exchanges of visits at the leadership level reflect the strength of bilateral ties.
Referring to recent developments, he recalled the visit of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to Tajikistan in May and the inauguration of Tajik Cultural Week in Islamabad last week. He described the cultural week as a historic milestone, marking the first time such an event has been held in Pakistan and symbolizing the growing people-to-people and cultural connections between the two nations.
Speaking on the intellectual legacy of Allama Iqbal, the ambassador described him as a visionary leader whose message continues to gain depth and relevance with time. He said Iqbal’s poetry addresses universal themes such as the purpose of life, freedom, determination, perseverance, and the balance between reason and emotion.
The envoy highlighted that Iqbal emphasized knowledge as the foundation of power and progress, advocating both spiritual awakening and the pursuit of modern science and research.
He noted that Iqbal’s message transcends religious boundaries, seeking the well-being of all humanity. According to the ambassador, Iqbal’s dynamic and evolving interpretation of Islam offers guidance, strength, and inspiration for the modern world, making him a leading intellectual figure not only for South Asia but for the broader Islamic world.
Ambassador Sarwar also underscored Iqbal’s special focus on youth, whom he regarded as the true capital of a nation. Through the symbol of the eagle, Iqbal inspired young people to develop self-confidence, courage, and lofty aspirations, encouraging them to play a decisive role in shaping the future.
Concluding his address, the ambassador said that Iqbal’s philosophy stresses collective unity, hope, and resilience, reminding societies that despair leads to decline, while hope is the true strength of life. He added that it is a matter of pride that Allama Iqbal is widely known and respected in Tajikistan as “Iqbal Lahori.”
He once again thanked Tajik National University, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, faculty members, and the Pakistan Study Center for organizing the ceremony and honoring the enduring legacy of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal.