The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has denied claims that the design of new currency notes highlights any specific religion. In a recent statement, the central bank clarified the misconceptions surrounding the design of the upcoming banknotes.
According to the SBP, one of the designs selected during a public competition aimed to represent Pakistan’s religious diversity. However, this design has been misinterpreted by some, leading to confusion among the public. The bank emphasized that no design from the competition has been finalized for the new currency notes.
The SBP further explained that an art committee had selected this particular design based on its quality and the expression of religious inclusivity. However, the final designs for the new currency notes will be developed by international design firms, which will be selected through a competitive process.
The State Bank also announced that international design firms will submit their proposals by December 2024. Once approved by the SBP board, the proposed designs will be presented to the federal government in January 2025. The printing of the new currency notes will only begin following the federal government’s approval.
The State Bank urged the public to disregard any false interpretations regarding the new currency designs and reassured that the process will reflect Pakistan’s values of diversity and inclusivity.
