BEIJING, Mar 25 (APP): The Consulate General of Pakistan in Shanghai hosted a grand reception on Sunday to commemorate the 86th Pakistan National Day, marking the historic Pakistan Resolution adopted on March 23, 1940, in Lahore.
The event, chaired by Deputy Consul General Muhammad Atif, brought together over 100 distinguished guests including Chinese officials, diplomats, representatives of enterprises, academics, media personnel and members of the Pakistani community in China’s Yangtze River Delta region.
In his keynote address, Consul General, Shehzad Ahmad Khan highlighted the transformative impact of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the immense potential for further collaboration between the two nations.
“CPEC is a shining example of our collaboration. It has not only transformed Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy landscape but has also brought the people of our two nations together, from Gwadar to Kashgar,” Khan stated.
“CPEC is a testament to what we can achieve when we decide to work hand in hand with each other.” He introduced Pakistan as a land of rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions and warm hospitality. “Our people are our greatest asset, and I am proud to see the growing Pakistani community here in Shanghai, contributing to the cultural and economic fabric of this vibrant city,” he added.
The event featured an exhibition of Pakistani products, including textiles, bronze wares, onyx handicrafts, agricultural products such as rice and pink salt, and sports goods such as balls and sneakers. The display highlighted Pakistan’s diverse industries and craftsmanship, drawing admiration from attendees, CEN reported.
Guests were also treated to traditional Pakistani cuisine such as vegetable samosas, Basmati rice, lamb kebabs and rice pudding, offering a taste of Pakistan’s rich culinary heritage.
A traditional dance performance by six Pakistani students, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, added a cultural touch to the evening, showcasing the country’s rich artistic traditions.
The performance was met with enthusiastic applause, further strengthening the cultural links between the two nations. A special moment of the evening was the recognition of two Pakistani students, Yousaf Khan and Muhammad Refeeullah Jawaad, who are studying at Gannan Medical University in China. The two were honored for their courageous act of assisting an elderly Chinese citizen who suffered a sudden medical emergency at a Shanghai railway station on February 7th. “Their bravery and selflessness reflect the values of compassion and solidarity that define the Pakistani people,” Atif said during the ceremony. “We are proud of their actions, which have strengthened the bond between our nations.”
APP/asg