LAHORE, Friday, February 27, 2026 (WNP): The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and Directorate General of Archaeology, Punjab, on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the rehabilitation of the Muhammad Iqbal Museum, commonly known as Javed Manzi in a landmark move to preserve Pakistan’s intellectual heritage.

The signing ceremony took place in the garden of Javed Manzil — the residence personally built by philosopher-poet Muhammad Iqbal, where he spent his final years. The historic house was later converted into a museum dedicated to preserving his life, works and vision.

The ceremony was attended by Punjab Provincial Minister for Agriculture Syed Muhammad Ashiq Hussain Shah Kirmani, Ministerial Secretary for Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Sakrot Amman Rana, Consul General of Türkiye in Lahore Mehmet Eymen Şimşek, TİKA Pakistan Country Coordinator Saliha Tuna, and Director General of Archaeology Punjab Zaher Abbas Malik.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Kirmani highlighted the symbolic and historical significance of preserving the residence both constructed and inhabited by Allama Iqbal. He described the initiative as particularly meaningful as Pakistan approaches the 150th birth anniversary of the national poet, underscoring the importance of international cooperation — especially with Türkiye — in safeguarding shared cultural heritage.

Consul General Şimşek noted that Allama Iqbal’s name is inseparably linked with the city of Lahore and expressed Türkiye’s satisfaction in contributing to a project that aims to carry Iqbal’s intellectual legacy forward.

In her remarks, Saliha Tuna described Iqbal as a towering intellectual figure whose influence transcended borders and generations across the Muslim world. She also drew attention to the profound intellectual connection between Allama Iqbal and Türkiye’s national poet Mehmed Akif Ersoy. Although the two never met in person, Tuna said, they exchanged literary works through mutual acquaintances. Mehmed Akif was known to recite Iqbal’s poetry in gatherings and held deep admiration for his philosophical thought and literary genius.

Officials noted that the rehabilitation project represents more than the restoration of a historic building. It reflects a broader cultural partnership between Pakistan and Türkiye aimed at preserving and promoting a shared intellectual and spiritual heritage.

Javed Manzil, located in one of Lahore’s historic quarters, remains a site of national importance, attracting scholars, students and visitors seeking insight into Iqbal’s life and his role in shaping the intellectual foundations of Pakistan.

With TİKA’s support, the restoration initiative is expected to enhance structural preservation, improve exhibition spaces and modernise facilities, ensuring that future generations continue to engage with the legacy of one of South Asia’s most influential thinkers.