In a significant development for cultural cooperation, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has revealed plans for Pakistani and Iranian filmmakers to collaborate on a world-class film about Allama Iqbal, highlighting the shared heritage between both nations.
Film City Project Gets Green Light
Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Iranian Consul General in Lahore on Saturday, Minister Bukhari made several important announcements. The Punjab government has officially approved the establishment of a Film City, with work scheduled to begin shortly. The Infrastructure Development Authority of Punjab (IDAP) has already completed the design phase for this ambitious project.
"The proposal for potential Iranian collaboration will be presented before the committee formed for this project," Bukhari stated, indicating that international partnership remains a key priority for the initiative.
Iranian Expertise and Cooperation
The event saw significant participation from both sides. Dr. Ahmad Norouzi, Director for Overseas Affairs of IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting), attended alongside other Iranian delegates including Abbas Mohammad Nejad, Murtaza Shamsi, and Ali Mohammadi Nafchi.
Dr. Norouzi emphasized Iran's commitment to the project, revealing that IRIB operates Iran's largest Film City, complete with trained professionals and state-of-the-art facilities. He assured full cooperation in Punjab's Film City project and extended an invitation for Punjab's film industry representatives to visit IRIB's facilities in Iran.
Expanding Cultural and Economic Ties
Beyond film collaboration, Minister Bukhari identified additional areas for partnership. She highlighted the significant demand for Iranian carpets in Punjab and encouraged Iranian investors to establish carpet display centers in the province, citing substantial business opportunities in this sector.
The cultural exchange extends to religious programming as well. Bukhari disclosed that a draft for Quran recitation competitions is being prepared for the upcoming Ramadan. This initiative will be shared with the Iranian Consulate to organize joint competitions, similar to the collaborative Iqbal Day celebrations previously held by both nations.
The minister presented commemorative shields to the Iranian guests during the event, which also saw attendance from senior Punjab officials including Secretary Information Tahir Raza Ahmadani, Additional Secretary Culture Muhammad Nawaz, Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmad, and DGPR Fareed Ahmad.
Dr. Norouzi stressed the importance of regular bilateral exchange of cultural and film-related delegations, describing it as essential for strengthening the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Iran.
