Islamabad: Newly appointed Chinese Cultural Consul Chen Peng reiterated China’s commitment to further cultural cooperation with Pakistan in a special meeting hosted by Chairman Pakistan Cultural Forum (PCF) Zafar Bakhtawari on Monday.
The event held at Bakhtawari’s residence was attended by notable personalities including Ahsan Bakhtawari, Chairman of Clean and Green Islamabad Movement and Waqar Bakhtawari, former president of Chakwal Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Held in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, the meeting focused on exploring new ways to deepen cultural ties between the two countries. Key discussions revolved around launching cultural exchange programs, organizing artistic collaborations and developing strong people-to-people ties.
Chen Peng, who was recently appointed to his post as Cultural Councilor, expressed his deep appreciation for his warm welcome. He stressed the importance of cultural diplomacy and outlined several projects aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. According to Chen, these initiatives include the organization of Chinese film festivals, martial arts exhibitions, and programs to engage Pakistan’s youth.
Chen Peng said that our focus is on the young generation. “Our aim is to bridge the cultural gap and promote lasting friendship between Pakistan and China through various cultural initiatives.”
He also highlighted the importance of language in enhancing relations and said that efforts will be made to promote Chinese language in Pakistan. Chen emphasized that language is an essential tool for strengthening mutual understanding and pointed to future plans to offer Chinese language courses and organize student exchange programs.
PCF Chairman Zafar Bakhtavari reiterated the forum’s four-decade long commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy. He stressed the importance of China-Pakistan relations and emphasized the role of cultural exchange in advancing relations. Bakhtavari highlighted the importance of events like food festivals, film screenings and joint artistic collaborations in promoting cultural communication.
Bakhtavari said that this partnership with China is an opportunity to continue the legacy of friendship and cooperation between our two nations.
Ahsan Bakhtavari, who also attended the meeting, stressed that cultural diplomacy should go hand in hand with economic cooperation. He pointed to Gwadar as an important strategic point for enhancing not only bilateral trade but also cultural ties. Bakhtawari further highlighted the potential for Pakistan to access China’s fast-growing market, noting that the two countries could benefit from closer cultural and economic cooperation.
Bakhtawari said that the emergence of China as a global market provides immense opportunities for Pakistani exports. “The free trade agreement (FTA) between our countries is a huge step forward, and we should use it to expand trade, especially in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture and textiles.”
Former President of Chakwal Chamber of Commerce and Industry Waqar Bakhtavari also raised the importance of improving direct air links between Pakistan and China. Drawing from his personal experiences, he explained that stronger connectivity would create more opportunities for trade, cultural exchange and tourism.
He said that strengthening air connectivity is very important. “This opens the door to a wide range of cooperation between our two countries, which can translate into economic development and a wider exchange of cultural values.”
The event concluded with a joint commitment to further engage the youth of both countries through sports, art and cultural events. Both sides agreed that long-term cultural programs aimed at educating the youth will play an important role in fostering strong ties and ensuring the continued success of bilateral relations.
The meeting between Chinese Cultural Consul Chen Peng and cultural and business leaders of Pakistan emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in building lasting friendship. The proposed initiatives will help strengthen the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and China while also providing opportunities for cooperation in various fields including trade, education and the arts.
