ISLAMABAD: Minister for Religious Affairs Senator Talha Mahmood said that Pakistan is open for religious tourism. Addressing International Gandhara Symposium here, he urged followers of all religions including Buddhism to visit their archeological sites in Pakistan.

Minister rejected propaganda campaign against Muslims saying our great religion Islam preaches peace, compassion, tolerance and harmony.

Minister stressed that inter cultural dialogue is essential to foster understanding and mutual respect amongst nations. He noted that cultural diplomacy enables us to celebrate our shared heritage.

Talha Mahmood said that we should carry forward torch of cultural diplomacy to promote message of peace and harmony.

"Legacy of Gandhara civilisation and Buddhist heritage in Pakistan is not just relic of past but it is guiding light that can illuminate our present and inspire our future," Mahmood said.

Chairman Prime Minister's Task Force on Gandhara Tourism Dr Ramesh Kumar Vankwani said that there is great potential of Buddhist tourism in Pakistan.

Number of Buddhist monks from Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Nepal, South Korea and Sri Lanka are attending symposium. Monks visit is planned for Taxila Museum and archeological sites.