APCFA and Chinese Embassy Mark 74th China Founding Anniversary & 10th CPEC-BRI Milestone

In celebration of the 74th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China and the 10th anniversary of the initiation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the "Belt and Road" (BRI) initiative, the All Pakistan-China Friendship Association (APCFA), in conjunction with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Pakistan, orchestrated the Pakistan-China Friendship Festival at Serena Hotel Islamabad on Monday, the 16th of October, 2023.

This event featured a variety of activities, including Chinese calligraphy classes, culinary training sessions, calligraphy workshops, musical band performances, and stalls showcasing traditional items that promote the bilateral culture of both countries. 

The chief guest for this event was H.E Zhang Heqing, Cultural Counselor and Director of the China Cultural Center in Pakistan. In his remarks, he expressed deep gratitude to APCFA for their dedicated efforts in organizing such a significant event and actively participating in similar cultural promotion activities aimed at inspiring youth in both Pakistan and China. He further emphasized the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan, both geographically and historically. He noted that despite the challenges and hard times, these countries have persevered. Both Pakistan and China possess rich historical backgrounds, with Pakistan tracing its history back 4600 years to the Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa civilizations, and China having a similar legacy with the Liangzhu civilizations. Additionally, both nations share significant populations, with China boasting the world's largest population and Pakistan being among the world's top five in terms of population.

Echoing the sentiments of other speakers, he acknowledged the pivotal role of the youth in the development of both nations and hoped that they would dedicate themselves to their studies and contribute to Pakistan's progress, becoming exemplary ambassadors of China-Pakistan friendship.

Over the past 74 years, China has experienced remarkable transformations under the guidance of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The nation has successfully eradicated absolute poverty, established the world's most extensive education, social security, and healthcare systems, and achieved sustained economic growth and social stability. 45 years ago, China introduced the reform and opening-up policy, which not only profoundly transformed China but also presented substantial opportunities for the rest of the world. Today, China is confidently embarking on a new journey toward achieving national rejuvenation through modernization.

Among the dignitaries present at the event were Muhammad Ikhlaq Usmani, President of APCFA; Mrs. Romana Iftikhar, Patron of APCFA; and Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani of APCFA Peshawar.

Students from Super Nova School, West Minister School and Academy, Islamabad College of Arts and Sciences, and Iqra University actively participated in the event. A Chinese instructor conducted a Chinese language class, teaching common words for friendship to the audience. Students enthusiastically engaged in the Chinese culinary session, mastering Jiaozi making techniques and showcasing their newly acquired culinary skills. The Chinese Calligraphy workshop captured the interest of school students who learned the basics of calligraphy, including brush handling, strokes, and fundamentals before displaying their calligraphy creations on paper.

The festival's ambiance was further enhanced by musical band performances and stalls presenting a wide range of cultural items from both China and Pakistan, promoting art and culture while reinforcing the theme of celebrating the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, the 10th anniversary of CPEC and BRI, and deepening the friendship and cultural bonds between these steadfast allies."