Pakistan and China need to strengthen their communication and cultural ties by leveraging each other's strengths, resources, and market opportunities. Talking to WealthPK, Moazzam Ghurki, President of the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI), opined that Pakistan was direly in need of enhancing its cultural ties with other nations, including China. “Increasing social understanding is key to success in nurturing business and trade relations. When the people of a country understand the values and traditions of other cultures, it brings respect, trust, and harmony. It is a common phenomenon that mutual respect and understanding fosters socio-economic growth. “In today’s world, no country or nation can grow in isolation. Communication is a simple word to say, but in reality, it is one of the best diplomatic norms. It is a portal for every social, trade, and business-related matter. You need to start by opening a channel of discussion or throwing your message in a way that others understand.

After that every small or large activity takes place. It is necessary to show the soft image of Pakistan,” he said. “Communication, connectivity, and development of mutual trust can only be achieved by accepting, respecting, and valuing others. This is a form of social diplomacy that addresses all socio-economic activities,” he added. Talking to WealthPK on the condition of anonymity, an official from the National Heritage and Culture Department said relations between the two neighbouring countries was characterized by the feelings of goodwill towards each other. China is Pakistan’s well-wisher and a good number of Chinese companies are doing business in Pakistan. Both the nations are undoubtedly tied with the largest economic rendezvous – CPEC – which will change the socio-economic priorities of the whole region. “Showcasing the rich culture of Pakistan by organizing live exhibitions of local crafts, tourism, and trade products will make it easy for the Chinese people to better understand us.

Cultural collaboration between the two countries is important. It can be initiated by involving the departments concerned so that the diversity and multiculturalism between both the nations can be promoted. CPEC is one of the living examples showing strong economic, commercial, and cultural connectivity between them,” he said. He said, “China and Pakistan are growing together and working on a mutual framework of socio-economic prosperity. This situation makes it more important to bring the people of both sides together. It is only possible by increasing communication and sharing cultural values and traits. Only strong communication bridges wipe out misunderstandings. Both the nations must introduce joint cultural exchange programs for strong ties, which will help them provide sustainable opportunities for development and socio-economic prosperity”.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)