ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The United States has handed back more than 250 antiquities to Pakistan in a formal ceremony held at the Islamabad Museum.
The artefacts, which had been illegally trafficked out of Pakistan, were recovered through close cooperation between US law enforcement agencies and Pakistani authorities. Officials from both sides reaffirmed their commitment to combating illicit smuggling and preserving cultural heritage.
The returned collection includes historically significant items, some of which date back over 4,000 years. Among the most notable pieces are terracotta figurines of ancient origin, reflecting the region’s rich civilisation.
Assistant US Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Eric Paul Kapur stated that the recovered items highlight the deep cultural history of Pakistan and the importance of safeguarding such heritage.
One of the key artefacts is a rare second-century CE Buddha Pada sculpture, valued at approximately $1.1 million, which was stolen from Pakistan in the 1980s and later transported to New York.
In addition, a gold “Stater” coin is also among the items returned. The recovered antiquities will now be preserved in Pakistan and are expected to be displayed for public viewing.