The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, Fred Senevirathne, served as Chief Guest and inaugurated a photographic exhibition showcasing monuments and historical buildings of South Punjab at the Lahore Museum, Punjab Province, on 27 September 2025, in celebration of World Tourism Day 2025.
The Lahore Museum, recognized as the oldest and largest museum in Pakistan, houses an extensive and diverse collection of antiquities spanning over two million years of human history. Among its most renowned exhibits is the iconic “Fasting Buddha” sculpture, a distinguished masterpiece of Gandhara art dating back to the 2nd–3rd century CE.
High Commissioner Fred Senevirathne was cordially received by Secretary of the Punjab Tourism, Archaeology, and Museums Department, Ehsan Bhutta, accompanied by the Director and Deputy Director of the Lahore Museum. During the visit, Secretary Bhutta provided a comprehensive briefing on the museum’s key initiatives, including its publications, documentaries, exhibitions, guided tours, and educational and cultural programs. He highlighted the department’s continued commitment to promoting the rich cultural heritage of the South Asian region to both domestic and international audiences.
The High Commissioner conveyed his appreciation to the Secretary, Director, and Deputy Director for their invitation and warm hospitality extended during the inauguration of the photographic exhibition. He remarked on the Lahore Museum’s impressive collection of artifacts, which reflect the rich and diverse history of Pakistan, and commended the meticulous care with which they are preserved. He further acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the museum’s leadership and staff in safeguarding cultural heritage and in fostering public education through their ongoing efforts.
The High Commissioner was accompanied by Minister/Head of Chancery at the High Commission, A. Christy Ruban, Minister/Head of Chancery at the High Commission, and Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Lahore, Yasin Joyia.
Sri Lanka High Commission Islamabad
14 October 2025