Monday, April 20

Celebration of 75th Anniversary of China–Pakistan Diplomatic Relations Marked by Grand Children’s Cultural Gala in Islamabad

Islamabad, Pakistan April 2026(Kamran Raja): A vibrant and heartwarming ceremony celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the China and Pakistan was held in Islamabad, bringing together dignitaries, educators, students, and members of the Chinese and Pakistani communities. The event, titled 75 Years of Friendship, Building the China–Pakistan Bond Together featured a children’s cultural gala highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations.

The event was organized by the China Cultural Center in Pakistan, hosted by the Pakistan Chinese Education Association, and co-organized by the Chinese Students Association in Pakistan.

The ceremony was attended by a distinguished lineup of guests, including, Zafar Uddin Mahmood, Special Representative to the Prime Minister on China Affairs, Chen Peng, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of China in Pakistan
, Farah Naz Akbar, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, Members of the National Assembly, including Muhammad Idrees and Mahjabeen Abbasi, La Jielian, President of the Overseas Chinese Association in Pakistan, Representatives from the International Organization for Migration in Pakistan, Syed Hassan Aftab, Vice President of the International Islamic University Islamabad, Dr. Zafar, Director of Chinese Department, National University of Modern Languages, Sadia Haider, Director, Chinese Language Center, COMSATS University Islamabad, Dr. Chaudhry Faisal Mushtaq, Founder & CEO of Future World Schools, Tian Niansheng, a veteran contributor to Pakistan–China cooperation, Cai Dafu, Consul, Embassy of China, Wang Chenghu, General Manager, Ningxia Communications Construction Pakistan, Mohammad Abdul Basit, CEO of AB Global, Ma Bin, President of Pakistan Chinese Education Association

Media representatives, Chinese enterprises, and youth from both countries were also present.

The event commenced with the national anthems of both countries, followed by a series of keynote addresses emphasizing the historic depth and strategic importance of China–Pakistan relations.

In his remarks, Zafar Uddin Mahmood highlighted the steady evolution of bilateral ties, underscoring the role of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening mutual trust. Farah Naz Akbar emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and heritage cooperation, while Chen Peng reaffirmed China’s continued support for educational and youth engagement initiatives in Pakistan.

Ma Bin, in his welcome address, reiterated the Association’s commitment to fostering educational collaboration and nurturing mutual understanding among younger generations.

The gala featured an array of performances by children and students, symbolizing cultural harmony and shared aspirations. Highlights included, A violin performance of Horse Racing, Traditional and classical Chinese dances such as Heaven and Earth Dragon Scale, Floral Melody, and Jasmine Flower, Poetry recitations and bilingual performances celebrating China Pakistan friendship, Choir presentations, including As You Wish and Thank You, Pakistan, A piano performance inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean, Children’s jazz dance and fan dance performances

Students from institutions including the International Islamic University Islamabad, National University of Modern Languages, and various Chinese language centers actively participated.

Several award ceremonies were held to recognize outstanding achievements by students in essay writing competitions, Chinese language recitation contests, and international literary events. Notably, students from the Pakistan Chinese Education Association secured multiple awards in the 26th Global Chinese Essay Competition, with one student earning a prestigious top global honor.

Additionally, certificates were awarded to participants of the “Z Generation Huaxing Young Reporters” program, jointly supported by Chinese educational institutions.

The event concluded with the presentation of commemorative souvenirs to distinguished guests, followed by a group photo session and a symbolic moment where participants from both nations embraced on stage, reflecting the deep-rooted friendship between China and Pakistan.

The ceremony ended with all attendees standing together to chant, Long live China–Pakistan friendship.

Marking 75 years of diplomatic relations, the event served not only as a tribute to the past but also as a forward-looking celebration of shared values, cultural exchange, and youth-driven collaboration. It reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to further strengthen their “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” in the years to come.