Diplomacy in style: Pakistan-China fashion show lights up the Great Wall

Fashion, culture & diplomacy converged as the Pakistan-China Fashion Show debuted at the Great Wall’s Badaling

Against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, fashion, culture, and diplomacy converged in spectacular harmony as the Pakistan Embassy Beijing, in collaboration with the China International Cultural Communication Center (CICCC), hosted the inaugural Pakistan-China Fashion Show.

The historic stone pathway—long a symbol of unity, strength, and cultural resilience—was transformed into a vibrant runway, marking the first-ever fashion event of its kind at this iconic location. The evening brought together a curated mix of heritage, innovation, and cross-cultural creativity, celebrating the evolving aesthetic synergy between Pakistan and China.

Acclaimed Pakistani designers Maheen Khan, Moazzam Abbasi, Ayesha Tariq, Rizwaullah, and Zain Hashmi unveiled bespoke collections crafted to reflect a fusion of Pakistani craftsmanship with Chinese artistic influences. The garments celebrated tradition while embracing modern silhouettes, tailored to resonate with an international audience.

Chinese models don creations by Pakistani designers at the inaugural Pakistan-China Fashion Show at the Great Wall of China. Photo: Handout

Also featured was Aqeel Chaudhary, a China-based Pakistani designer, who presented a shimmering collection of intricately designed jewelry pieces—each one a tribute to the enduring elegance of eastern adornment with a contemporary twist.

Adding further dimension to the show was renowned Chinese designer Liang Suyun, whose collection seamlessly complemented the Pakistani pieces, reinforcing the narrative of shared aesthetics and mutual appreciation between the two nations.

The entire event was curated by Adnan Ansari of Riwayat, a name synonymous with fashion diplomacy, who brought together the diverse creative voices under a single thematic umbrella—"fashion as a bridge between cultures."

Pakistani fashion takes center stage at the Great Wall, as Chinese models walk in designer collections from across Pakistan. Photo: Handout

Gracing the event were senior Chinese officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and media personalities, all of whom witnessed firsthand the blossoming relationship between the fashion worlds of Pakistan and China.

In his address, Ambassador Khalil Hashmi remarked on the symbolic power of the venue, stating that “the majestic Badaling Great Wall provided a befitting venue to celebrate the living spirit of the Silk Road connection, now manifested as a modern bridge of fabric, art, and friendship.”

He noted the show’s particular significance as it coincided with the 60th anniversary of the first Pakistani dignitary’s visit to the Great Wall, turning the event into both a cultural celebration and a diplomatic milestone. Highlighting the fusion-driven creativity on display, he emphasized how the collaboration is creating “new commercial bridges for a shared future.”

Chinese models showcase stunning creations by Pakistani fashion designers at the inaugural Pakistan-China Fashion Show held at the Great Wall’s Badaling section, Photo: Handout

Long Yuxiang, Chairman of CICCC, echoed the Ambassador’s sentiments, calling the event “not only a grand cultural exchange but also a vivid reflection of the China-Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.”

He emphasised the need to explore the contemporary relevance of traditional aesthetics and looked forward to continued collaboration with Pakistani partners to co-create fashion works that speak to both heritage and the future.

The evening ended not only with the sound of applause but with a renewed sense of creative purpose—a commitment to fashion as a medium of diplomacy, storytelling, and cross-border collaboration.