‘CPEC Cultural Caravan 2023’ to enhance Pakistan, China, CAS ties

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Heritage and Culture, Syed Jamal Shah has announced that his ministry intends to arrange a Cultural Caravan by the end of this year, with the goal of enhancing cultural ties between Pakistan, China, and the Central Asian States, transcending economic relationships.

This cultural expedition, named ‘CPEC Cultural Caravan 2023,’ will consist of a diverse mix of Pakistani, Chinese, and Central Asian artists, musicians, photographers, anthropologists, writers, and filmmakers.

He made this announcement during an award ceremony for the film “Ba’tie Girl” at the newly renovated Pakistan Embassy College Beijing (PECB) auditorium, an official statement issued here said.

During the event, the minister presented the Pakistan-China Cultural Exchange Envoy award to the film’s producer, Xie Peng, and the Pakistan National Award for Outstanding Achievement in Culture to the co-producer.

Jamal Shah revealed that the caravan will commence its journey in Xi’an, China, and traverse through Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, UAE, Oman, Gwadar, Karachi, ultimately concluding in Islamabad. This cultural caravan will document the experiences and stories along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and Silk Route, encompassing Central Asian countries during December this year.

Pakistan Ambassador to China, Moinul Haque, welcomed the minister and praised his role in expanding cultural cooperation between Pakistan and China.

He emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges in strengthening the friendship between the two nations. Moin ul Haque highlighted the special and enduring relationship between Pakistan and China, noting that both countries were celebrating the year of tourism, expressing hope for increased tourism exchanges.

Xie Peng, the film’s producer, introduced the movie, which focuses on women’s empowerment and fostering friendship between Pakistan and China.

The film “Ba’tie Girl,” featuring both Pakistani and Chinese artists, was also screened during the event. Prior to the ceremony, the minister, ambassador, and college principal inaugurated the newly renovated auditorium, with senior diplomats, officials, teachers, media, and community members in attendance.