Culture Unites: Islamabad Celebrates the Independence Days of Central Asian States and Azerbaijan

On 9 September 2026, a Multi-Lingual and Multi-Cultural Concert dedicated to the Independence Days of the Central Asian states and Azerbaijan was held at the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum in Islamabad. The event was organized by the Eurasian Peoples Friendship Forum in collaboration with the Embassies of the countries of the region, with the support of Pakistan’s National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa).

Heads of Diplomatic Missions of the Central Asian states, Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation congratulated those present on the national holidays and highlighted the important role of cultural dialogue in promoting friendship, mutual respect and understanding among peoples.

A vibrant concert programme was one of the highlights of the event. Pakistani artists, dressed in the national costumes of the respective countries, performed traditional dances and musical compositions representing the rich cultural heritage of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, including the traditional Turkmen dance Kushtdepdi. The performances showcased the distinctive character and richness of the region’s national cultures, as well as the diversity of its traditions and cultural heritage.

The event was attended by Heads of Diplomatic Missions of the Central Asian states, Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation, representatives of Lok Virsa, officials from Pakistani governmental and cultural institutions, as well as members of the public and expert communities.

The event served as a vibrant celebration of the cultural diversity of Eurasia and provided an important platform for further strengthening humanitarian ties, friendship and mutual understanding between Turkmenistan, Pakistan and the countries of the region.