Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refuted suggestions that the government plans to close or combine national institutions of academic, literary, historical, or cultural importance. He gave these assurances during a meeting with Senator Irfan Siddiqui, the PML-N Parliamentary Leader in the Upper House, in Islamabad on Tuesday.

The Prime Minister emphasized the vital role of scholarly and literary resources in society, highlighting Pakistan”s rich cultural heritage. He stated that the administration is committed to strengthening and enhancing the effectiveness of these organizations. The aim is to counter extremism and project a positive global image of the nation.

Senator Siddiqui conveyed concerns from intellectuals, writers, poets, and artists about potential closures or mergers of scholarly bodies recommended by the government”s rightsizing committee. He recalled the support these organizations received during former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif”s administration.

Prime Minister Sharif underscored the importance of knowledge, literature, and the arts in fostering empathy and countering rigid thinking. He announced the forthcoming establishment of a committee to enhance these institutions” management, performance, reach, and responsibilities. Senator Siddiqui expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister”s clear commitment to preserving and promoting academic and literary institutions.