On Aug 28, 2025, the Pakistan-China Exemplary Friendship: In Light of Calligraphic Art Exhibition was successfully held at the National Language Promotion Department (NLPD), Islamabad, Pakistan. The event was jointly organized by the Institute for a Community with Shared Future, Communication University of China, Beijing, the National Language Promotion Department, Islamabad, and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.
The program was co-hosted by Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF). In his opening remarks, Mr. Akram highlighted the deep cultural significance of calligraphy, emphasizing how both Chinese and Urdu calligraphy serve as bridges of cultural exchange, people-to-people connectivity, mutual understanding, and most importantly, the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.
A special video message from Prof. Dr. Li Huailiang, Dean of the Institute for a Community with Shared Future, Communication University of China, was played, in which he praised the exemplary bond of Pakistan-China friendship and appreciated the organization of this unique calligraphy exhibition.
Mr. Shahid Mehmood Khokhar, Chairman, Implementation Tribunal for Newspaper Employees (ITNE), and Dr. Abid Siyal, Associate Professor, National University of Modern Languages, shared their insights on the cultural and intellectual value of calligraphy.
Mr. Wang Shengjie, Head of Political & Press Section (CPEC Focal Person), Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan, also addressed the gathering, underscoring China’s commitment to fostering cultural and academic collaborations with Pakistan. He also praised the event, appreciating the dedicated efforts of Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram in co-hosting and organizing such an impactful initiative. He underlined how the calligraphy exhibition holds great importance in promoting cultural dialogue and strengthening the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and China.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, Director General, NLPD, in his remarks, shed light on the importance of promoting calligraphy as an artistic expression of shared heritage and thanked the Embassy of China for its unwavering support and friendship.
The Chief Guest, Honorable Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division, delivered the closing speech, appreciating the efforts of both sides in strengthening cultural diplomacy. He then formally inaugurated the exhibition.
Following the speeches, participants showcased their calligraphic artworks, symbolizing the shared aesthetic traditions of Pakistan and China. The exhibition featured calligraphic artwork of experts trained in the National Language Promotion Department’s Calligraphy Wing, alongside a variety of creative expressions that blended classical and modern styles of both Chinese and Urdu calligraphy. The audience admired the artistic talent and cultural richness reflected in each piece. The Chinese Embassy also presented special gifts to the participants in recognition of their artistic contributions, while encouraging them to continue using art as a medium for cultural diplomacy and friendship.
The best calligraphic pieces from this exhibition will also be taken to China to be displayed at the upcoming Grand Event in the Communication University of China in September 2025. This effort stands as an important groundwork for Pakistan-China artistic collaboration, paving the way for sustained cultural exchange and future joint initiatives in art and calligraphy.
The event concluded on a note of friendship, cultural harmony, and mutual appreciation, reaffirming the time-tested and exemplary bond between Pakistan and China.