Beijing, 25th Aug, 2023 (GNP): Tsinghua University hosted an international symposium and photo exhibition focused on Swat Valley and Uddiyana research. The event saw attendees like Moin ul Haque, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Liu Jingsong from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, and Peng Gang, Vice President of Tsinghua University.
Organized by Tsinghua University’s Center for Pakistan Culture and Communication Studies, the symposium aimed to deepen cultural, religious, trade, and diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan.
Vice President of Tsinghua University Peng Gang highlighted how understanding the historical context of the Gandhara region could bolster international awareness of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and revive the historical Himalayan corridor.
An International Seminar titled"Lecture Series and Photo Exhibition on the Research of Uddiyana and Gandhara" was held at Tsinghua University.
Ambassador Moin ul Haque, Mr.Liu Jingsong DG, Department of Asian Affairs,MFA, Mr.Peng Gang Vice President Tsinghua University attended. pic.twitter.com/1bhzjhPEjq— Pakistan Embassy China (@PakinChina_) August 10, 2023
He also praised the Pakistan Study Center at Tsinghua University for its role in promoting cross-cultural understanding between Pakistan and China. Vice President Gang also emphasized the lasting influence of the Uddiyana and Gandhara civilizations on arts, architecture, culture, and spirituality.
He added that Pakistan Study Center holds annual symposium and invite top scholars to enhance cross-cultural and cross-civilizational dialogue between Pakistan and China. In the end, Vice President Gang applauded the efforts and dedication of the center’s research team in preserving and disseminating knowledge about the Uddiyana and Gandhara ciivilization.
Also Read: 7th China-South Asia Expo opens in Kunming, Yunnan Province
On the other hand, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Moin ul Haque emphasized the strong bond between the two nations, underlining China’s importance in Pakistan’s foreign policy.
He lauded Tsinghua’s commitment to historical research and heritage preservation, highlighting Pakistan’s archaeological significance as the seat of Gandhara civilization.
He also pointed out that Gandhara civilization facilitated early connections between China and Pakistan through Chinese monks such as Fa Xian and Xuan Zang, who journeyed along the Silk Road
Ambassador Haque also highlighted the triumph of the significant Gandhara Art Exhibition at the esteemed Palace Museum where over 170 artifacts were brought from seven Pakistani museums.
He also noted the Gandhara Symposium in Pakistan, which engaged nations with Buddhist heritage. Moreover, he also declared 2023 as the Year of China-Pakistan Tourism Exchanges, urging Chinese individuals to witness Pakistan’s Gandhara heritage, including UNESCO-listed sites.
Liu Jingsong, Director General of the Asian Department at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged the longstanding and deep-rooted relationship between China and Pakistan. He emphasized the historical nature of this friendship, spanning centuries. Jingsong called for a strengthening of these ties and the importance of passing down this legacy to future generations.
He highlighted the role of international students at Tsinghua University as bridges for fostering China’s people-to-people diplomacy and friendship. Jingsong also commended Dr. Luca M. Oliveiri, Prof. Li Xiguang, and their research team for conducting thorough investigations in challenging terrains like Swat Valley, the Khyber Pass, and the Upper Indus River.
Also Read: Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev addressed BRICS Summit in Johannesburg
He added that such events offer valuable opportunities for cross-regional and cross-cultural interactions, fostering innovation. Earlier, Prof. Li Xiguang extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guests and provided an overview of the symposium and photo exhibition.
Also in attendance were Prof. Dr. Badshah Sardar, Dr. Abdul Samad, Director of KP Archaeology and Museums, and Dr. Ghani-ur-Rehman, Director of the Taxila Institute of Asian Civilizations at Quaid-i-Azam University.
