ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening cultural ties with China and the global community, stressing that art and culture serve as vital bridges for peace, prosperity, and a shared future.
Addressing the Second Golden Panda Awards International Culture Forum in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, the president highlighted the power of cultural exchanges and creative industries in uniting people and fostering tolerance. The forum was attended by senior Chinese leaders, international delegates, artists, and cultural representatives, according to the Presidency’s press release.
President Zardari underlined that the enduring Pakistan-China friendship stood as a model of mutual respect and cooperation. As the two nations prepare to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year, he described the partnership as both strategic and a living testimony of the deep-rooted friendship between their peoples.
Reiterating Pakistan’s support for China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Governance Initiative (GGI), he said these frameworks embody sustainable growth, stability, inclusivity, and respect for cultural diversity. He noted that such initiatives counter narratives of conflict by promoting dialogue and mutual learning among civilisations.
Commending China under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, he said Beijing’s approach offered cooperation and “win-win solutions” at a time of dramatic global changes. He also congratulated the Golden Panda Award winners, noting that artistic creativity transcends borders and reflects shared human values.
During his visit, President Zardari also met Li Shulei, member of the Political Bureau and Minister of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee. The two discussed expanding cooperation in political, economic, and cultural spheres, with the president stressing the importance of strengthening people-to-people contacts and public diplomacy.
Mr. Li conveyed President Xi Jinping’s greetings and appreciation for President Zardari’s efforts to promote bilateral ties, including his recent article in China Daily. He affirmed that both countries would remain “iron-clad brothers,” adding, “Today, the world needs the fragrance of books rather than the smell of gunpowder.”
