Qawwali, Chinese melodies unite on Great Wall

Artists from two countries celebrate enduring 'ironclad friendship'

BEIJING:

Against the majestic backdrop of the illuminated Badaling Great Wall, traditional Chinese melodies mingled with the resonant rhythms of Pakistani Sufi Qawwali as artists from the two countries came together for the 2026 Beijing International Great Wall Concert, celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China.

Held under the theme 'An Ode to Ironclad Friendship', the landmark cultural gala turned an iconic Chinese landmark into a stage for music, dance and artistic exchange, highlighting the enduring bonds between the peoples of the two countries and the role of culture in bringing them closer.

The concert brought together distinguished Pakistani and Chinese performers, who captivated the audience with a rich blend of classical music, Qawwali, dance and vocal performances. Representing Pakistan were renowned classical artist Nighat Chaudhry and acclaimed Qawwali performers Zain Ali and Zohaib Ali.

China was represented by celebrated dance artist Zhang Jingdi, renowned coloratura soprano Chang Sisi and promising young vocalist Xu Ziyao. Their performances crossed linguistic and cultural boundaries, creating an atmosphere of harmony and mutual appreciation.

The historic setting added a distinctive dimension to the evening. As traditional Chinese melodies and Pakistani Sufi rhythms echoed across Wangjing Square near Badaling, the concert linked the two countries' artistic traditions against the backdrop of one of China's most recognisable cultural landmarks.

"A privilege and an unforgettable honour to perform at the iconic Great Wall of China, Beijing. A night where music transcended borders, cultures, and languages bringing people together through the timeless power of Qawwali, the Qawwali duo posted on social media.

Pakistan's Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi welcomed distinguished guests at the gathering and highlighted the significance of the venue in the history of Pakistan-China relations. The Badaling section between Watchtowers 6 and 7 was restored in 1989 with the support of the Government of Pakistan.

"Music gives voice to emotion, while dance gives it form and movement. Together, they transform cultural heritage from something remembered into something experienced," Hashmi remarked, stressing the cultural affinity that complements the two countries' longstanding diplomatic and economic partnership.

The event was jointly organised by the Embassy of Pakistan in Beijing and the China International Cultural Communication Center (CICCC), with support from the People's Government of Yanqing District.

The gathering was attended by senior diplomats, former Pakistani foreign secretaries and ambassadors, Chinese dignitaries, cultural representatives and artists, underscoring the importance attached by both sides to people-to-people connectivity alongside their longstanding diplomatic and strategic partnership.

Beyond an evening of artistic excellence, the concert highlighted the growing potential for cooperation in music, performing arts and cultural exchanges. Such engagement provides an avenue for younger generations to experience the heritage and traditions of both countries while deepening mutual understanding.

The 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations offered a significant moment for Pakistan and China to reflect on decades of close cooperation while exploring new avenues of engagement. Through music and dance, the Great Wall Concert gave fresh expression to that relationship, celebrating an enduring friendship and reinforcing the commitment to carry its spirit from one generation to the next.