Cultural Gathering in Panjshir with the Participation of the Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture

On Sunday, 5 Rabiʿ al-Thani 1447 AH, a cultural gathering of writers, poets, and artists was held in Panjshir Province with the presence of Mawlawi Atiqullah Azizi, the Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture at the Ministry of Information and Culture.

In his speech, Mr. Azizi explained that the purpose of the gathering was to engage directly with Panjshir’s intellectuals, writers, and cultural figures to benefit from their valuable insights and advice. He stated that Afghanistan’s enemies cannot tolerate the current peace and stability in the country, as they have always pursued their own narrow interests. He praised the people of Panjshir for their historic courage and sacrifices during the jihad against the former Soviet Union.

Highlighting the importance of cultural and intellectual struggle, Mr. Azizi stressed that the current ideological and cultural challenges are even more dangerous than armed conflict. He urged writers, poets, and community elders to resist these conspiracies and to dedicate their pens to serving the nation, reminding them that the people of Afghanistan can no longer bear the burden of war.

He further noted that the vision of the Islamic Emirate is inclusive and nationwide, free from ethnic or regional divisions. To support Panjshir’s poets and writers, he pledged institutional backing, especially in publishing literary works.

Welcoming the participants, Panjshir’s Deputy Governor, Mawlawi Shah Malang, emphasized the need to strengthen cultural activities. He highlighted those cultural values form the foundation of unity and prosperity in society, and safeguarding them is a collective responsibility. He assured the provincial administration, along with relevant institutions, would provide the necessary support to advance cultural efforts in the province.

Mawlawi Saif al-Rahman Mohammadi, the Director of People’s Culture under the Deputy Ministry of Arts and Culture, also addressed the gathering, calling for collaborative efforts to nurture and expand cultural capacities.

The event concluded with the recitation of Masnavi and poetry performances.