Pakistan

Going strong: Pakistan, China celebrate another year of friendship

Chinese ambassador says the countries are like a family

Photo: Huma Choudhary Photo: Huma Choudhary/Huma Choudhary October 01, 2015

First up was a power-packed martial arts performance followed by a melodious dance performance titled ‘Visitors from the mountains’. This was followed by a juggling act where artists stunned the audience. The highlight of the show was a ballet dancer. PHOTOS: HUMA CHOUDHARY/EXPRESS

ISLAMABAD: A cultural show featuring Chinese acrobatics, folk dance performances and music was held at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) Wednesday evening to celebrate the National Day of the People’s Republic of China and another successful year of Pakistan-China friendship.

In his opening speech, Ambassador Sun Weidong said “Pakistan and China are like a big, happy family and I’m delighted that we’re celebrating many years of friendship today.” He further expressed that friendship is fundamental in building better and successful societies.

“China has proven that a friend in need is a friend indeed,” shared Minister for Planning Development and Reform Ahsan Iqbal. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, despite its challenges, will be beneficial for both the countries’ future generations since Pakistan and China have a shared destiny, he added.

The event, hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in collaboration with Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform, began with a short video clip showcasing Chinese performers who have performed in Pakistan over the years after which the act by a well-known troupe from China began. The troupe belonged to a social organisation that was formed in 1954 and presented short pieces of acrobatics combined with juggling, folk dance and singing in between.

First up was a power-packed martial arts performance followed by a melodious dance performance titled “Visitors from the mountains.” This was followed by a juggling act where artists stunned the audience by juggling with each other. The highlight of the show, however, was a ballet dancer balancing herself gracefully on a male artist’s shoulder.

Some other segments included folk dancers swirling to the music while balancing bowls on their heads and a high-pitched instrumental performance by a female musician who played the Suona, a woodwind instrument with a mouthpiece connected to it. The glittery, bright-coloured traditional outfits further enriched the cultural experience.

Amir Akram, an audience member, while sharing his experience, said “Events like these are a breath of fresh air for the residents of the twin cities.”

Published in The Express Tribune, October 2^nd, 2015.