IT is heartening to witness both Pakistan and China actively collaborating to expand their ties across various domains with culture is now also in the spotlight. During a meeting between caretaker Federal Minister for Culture and National Heritage, Syed Jamal Shah and Chinese delegation led by Zhang Yang, Director CFIC and Chairman of Chang Jiang, the two sides delved into expansive realm of cultural exchange.
The discussions covered a spectrum of collaborative opportunities, ranging from pan-cultural exports to visiting performances, art exhibitions, cultural exhibitions, galleries, music, festivals and more. Minister Jamal Shah’s initiatives, including second China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) cultural caravan, deserve acknowledgment. These endeavours not only seek to strengthen economic ties but also recognise indispensable role of culture in fostering enduring relationships. Cultural bridges, alongside economic endeavours under CPEC, hold the promise of forging lasting connections. The suggestion of joint film and drama production emerges as a particularly compelling avenue for deeper collaboration. A groundbreaking example is the film “Ba’Tie Girl,” a significant co-production between Pakistani and Chinese filmmakers. This film stands as a testament to possibilities of cultural cooperation and serves as a milestone in the vibrant exchange of cultural elements between the two nations.
Zhang Yang, expression of interest in investing in Pakistani drama and film industry for joint production not only underscores economic potential but also positions Pakistan as an attractive tourism destination, emphasising the importance of cultural diplomacy. We believe the potential for cultural collaboration between Pakistan and China is immense and greater exchanges and partnerships, especially in entertainment industry, hold the promise of further bringing the two peoples closer and opening doors to more extensive collaboration.
