An international symposium accompaniedby a photo exhibition focusing on Swat Valley and Uddiyana research took place at Tsinghua University in Beijing on Thursday.
The event saw the presence of Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Moin ul Haque, Liu Jingsong, Director General of the Department of Asian Affairs at the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Peng Gang, Vice President of Tsinghua University, as well as senior officials from both the Pakistan Embassy and Tsinghua University, along with students.
This event was organized by Tsinghua University’s Center for Pakistan Culture and Communication Studies.
Vice President Peng Gang highlighted during the opening ceremony that delving into the historical and cultural context of the greater Gandhara region would deepen cultural, religious, trade, and diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan. Additionally, it would enhance international awareness and support for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as well as rejuvenate the historical economic and cultural corridor spanning the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hind Kush.
Gang emphasized that the Uddiyana and Gandhara civilizations have significantly contributed to arts, architecture, culture, and spirituality. The art of these civilizations, known for its brilliance, innovation, and intense devotion, has left an enduring mark.
He expressed contentment with Tsinghua University’s Pakistan Study Center, which plays a crucial role in fostering understanding between the civilizations of Pakistan and China.
Ambassador Haque affirmed that Pakistan and China share a unique bond rooted in robust political support and practical cooperation. The friendship between the two nations forms a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, resonating across the political spectrum.
Haque commended Tsinghua University’s dedication to rigorous research, scholarly exploration, and knowledge dissemination, leading to the discovery of historical and heritage treasures.
Pakistan’s Ambassador stressed that Pakistan holds the legacy of Gandhara civilization, offering archaeological sites and artifacts that unveil glimpses of the past. The Gandhara civilization played a role in establishing early connections between China and Pakistan, as numerous Chinese monks like Fa Xian and Xuan Zang journeyed along the Silk Road.
Cooperation in promoting a shared understanding of Gandhara Heritage was underlined as essential by Ambassador Haque. He highlighted the success of the grand Gandhara Art Exhibition at the esteemed Palace Museum, which exhibited over 170 artifacts from seven Pakistani museums, as well as the Gandhara Symposium held in Pakistan with participants from various countries with Buddhist heritage.
