Pakistan, China cultural ties strengthened through art

Pakistan, China cultural ties strengthened through art as the “Esthetic Bridges” exhibition was inaugurated on Sunday.

Deputy Chairman of Pakistan’s Senate, Syedaal Khan, emphasized that cultural exchanges between Pakistan and China are vital for strengthening people-to-people ties and deepening the longstanding friendship between the two nations.

Speaking at the inauguration of the “Esthetic Bridges” exhibition on Sunday, which showcased paintings by Chinese artists from the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute in Chongqing, Khan highlighted the essential role of art in fostering mutual understanding and reinforcing bilateral relations.

Khan noted that the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and China is not only based on economic and political cooperation but is also enriched by cultural and artistic exchanges, which serve as a crucial link between the two civilizations.

Jamal Shah, chairman of the Silkroad Culture Center and organizer of the event, remarked that the exhibition represents a significant step in strengthening the historical cultural ties between the two countries.

Shah pointed out that artistic and cultural exchanges between China and Pakistan have a long history, promoting deeper understanding and mutual appreciation over the centuries. He stressed that such initiatives help introduce Chinese artists’ work to Pakistani audiences, fostering a greater appreciation of each other’s cultural heritage and strengthening the enduring cultural bond.

He further added that cultural connections, like “esthetic bridges,” are resilient and long-lasting, just like the shared heritage of Pakistan and China, which has stood the test of time.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, who also attended the event, described the exhibition as an important platform for artistic dialogue between the two nations.

Jiang emphasized that the exhibition not only highlights the distinct beauty of Chinese and Pakistani art but also encourages artistic collaboration and deeper cultural exchange.

He reiterated the significance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and noted that China actively promotes inter-civilizational dialogue through the Global Civilization Initiative, which seeks to create harmony among diverse cultures.

Jiang affirmed China’s commitment to working with Pakistan to uphold this initiative, fostering mutual appreciation and cultural harmony. He added that increased exchanges between Chinese and Islamic civilizations would contribute to a vibrant and enriched cultural landscape.