Writers, intellectuals call for durable peace as Urdu Conference successfully concludes in Karachi. The four-day event, organized by the Arts Council of Pakistan, emphasized the global need for lasting tranquility, highlighting that conflict and the arms race impede progress.
A Call for Durable Peace
The 18th International Urdu Conference wrapped up with a powerful resolution. Participants declared, “Peace is a necessity for human society. We, writers and intellectuals, raise our voices for a durable peace in the world.”
This resolution, read by Arts Council President Ahmed Shah, also condemned the killing of unarmed Palestinians, supporting their right to self-determination. The appeal extends to the international community to act against oppression. SindhNews.com reported on similar sentiments earlier this year.
Addressing Global and Regional Issues
Furthering the conference’s focus on a durable peace, a significant portion of the resolution addressed the situation in Kashmir. Writers voiced full support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination and condemned India’s occupation. The international community is urged to find a resolution.
The participants also stressed the importance of increased global literary exchange. They called for easier visa acquisition to foster connections between writers and artists worldwide. This desire for broader reach was echoed by Sindh Chief Secretary Syed Asif Haider Shah, who praised the Arts Council’s efforts.
Strengthening Urdu’s Global Presence
A key demand emerging from the conference was the establishment of a dedicated translation centre. This institution would translate Urdu works into national and foreign languages, aiming for wider global recognition of Urdu literature. This initiative aligns with a Supreme Court decision advocating for Urdu’s status as the official language, a point also stressed by the participants. SindhNews.com has previously covered discussions on language policy.
Other resolutions included calls for reduced paper and printing costs and a demand for responsible language use by the media. Poet Iftikhar Arif, presiding over the event, highlighted the need for dialogue to resolve political differences and improve relations with neighbouring countries.
The conference concluded with the lifetime achievement award presented to Prof. Khurshid Rizvi and engaging sessions discussing recent Urdu literary works, showcasing the vibrancy of the literary community.