Art and Culture as Pillars of Global Unity
President Asif Ali Zardari, while addressing the Second Golden Panda Awards International Culture Forum in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, emphasized the critical role of culture in promoting peace, prosperity, and mutual understanding among nations. Representing Pakistan at the international gathering, President Zardari reaffirmed his country’s commitment to work closely with China and other nations to enhance cultural exchanges, support creative industries, and foster a culture of tolerance.
Highlighting the transformative power of art and cultural dialogue, Zardari stated that culture serves as a bridge that connects civilizations and offers a peaceful path toward a shared global future. He noted that such platforms help build cross-border understanding and counter divisive narratives like the “clash of civilizations.”
The event, attended by senior Chinese officials, global artists, and cultural leaders, served as a reflection of the growing emphasis on soft power and public diplomacy in international relations. President Zardari lauded the efforts of artists and award recipients, acknowledging that creativity has the unique ability to transcend national boundaries and unite people through universal human values.
Deepening the Pakistan-China Strategic and Cultural Partnership
During his visit, President Zardari also met with Li Shulei, a senior Chinese Communist Party official and Minister of the Publicity Department. The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields, with both leaders reaffirming the iron-clad friendship between Pakistan and China.
President Zardari expressed deep appreciation for China’s civilizational exchange initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Governance Initiative (GGI). He noted these frameworks provide a roadmap for sustainable development and global cooperation rooted in mutual respect.
Li Shulei conveyed warm greetings from President Xi Jinping, acknowledging Zardari’s influential role in strengthening bilateral ties. He also praised the President’s recent op-ed in China Daily, describing it as a testament to Pakistan’s respected voice in international affairs.
As the two nations prepare to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, both sides reaffirmed their dedication to deepening people-to-people ties and broadening the cultural and diplomatic relationship that has long defined Pak-China friendship.
