DistantNews
Support us
513 smuggled artefacts repatriated from US
🇵🇰 Pakistan /Culture & Society

513 smuggled artefacts repatriated from US

From Dawn · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Outcome reported
  • Pakistan has successfully repatriated 513 smuggled archaeological artifacts from the United States, primarily Gandhara relics.
  • The recovered items, seized by US authorities, are considered invaluable national treasures reflecting Pakistan's rich heritage.
  • Plans are in motion to establish a new museum for the preservation and display of these repatriated artifacts, with a Senate body also ordering a report on the smuggling racket.

Pakistan has repatriated 513 smuggled archaeological artifacts from the United States, officials announced to a Senate panel. The recovered items, mainly Gandhara civilization relics, were seized by US authorities after being smuggled over several decades.

These artifacts are considered invaluable national treasures that showcase Pakistan's rich civilizational heritage. They are now in government custody, and plans are underway to establish a new museum dedicated to their preservation and display. The Senate Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture also ordered a detailed report on the smuggling racket responsible for the illegal trade.

Officials stated that concerns raised by UNESCO regarding the conservation of Taxila, a significant archaeological site, have been addressed. The repatriation effort highlights bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the US in combating the illegal trafficking of cultural heritage.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dawn. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog