Pakistan-China Institute Hosts Prestigious ‘Nationwide Best BRI Projects Photography Competition’ Awards Ceremony

Islamabad, Pakistan – [October 12, 2023] – The Pakistan-China Institute, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, organized an awards ceremony to honor the exceptional winners of the ‘Nationwide Best BRI Projects Photography Competition.’ ThThe event took place at the prestigious PTV News Headquarters in Islamabad and featured distinguished guests, including Mustafa Hyder Sayed, Executive Director of the Pakistan China Institute, Professor Li Xiguang, former Dean of Tsinghua International Center for Communication Studies, and Tahir Hussain, Director-General of Radio Pakistan.

In his welcoming address, Mustafa Hyder Sayed highlighted the significance of this ceremony as the lead event leading up to the upcoming Belt and Road Forum scheduled to take place in Beijing next week. He emphasized that media in both Pakistan and China has predominantly focused on the tangible aspects of CPEC projects, such as energy and infrastructure, with limited attention given to the softer aspects, including people-to-people connectivity and cultural exchanges. Sayed pointed out that the competition was designed to instill a sense of ownership among Pakistan’s youth, as they will play a pivotal role in perpetuating the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.

Professor Li Xiguang, a prominent Chinese Scholar with a deep-rooted affection for Pakistan, praised the innovative concept behind the competition. He recounted his extensive love affair with Pakistan, spanning over half a century and more than 20 visits to the country since 1971. Expressing his admiration for Pakistan, Professor Li stated that the country has become a magnet for artists and photographers from around the world, illustrating its rich cultural tapestry and scenic beauty.

Tahir Hussain lauded China’s pivotal role in expressing a vote of confidence in Pakistan’s economic growth through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He emphasized that CPEC plays an instrumental role in Pakistan’s nation-building efforts and expressed appreciation for China’s exceptional commitment and ownership of CPEC. China’s unwavering support at a time when other nations hesitated to invest in Pakistan has been extraordinary and transformative for the nation.

Following the inspiring speeches, the first, second, and third position winners of the ‘Nationwide Best BRI Projects Photography Competition’ were awarded cash prizes of 100,000, 80,000, and 50,000 rupees, respectively, as a token of recognition for their outstanding photographic work.

The ceremony was broadcast live on Pakistan Television and witnessed the attendance of officials from Chinese enterprises involved in CPEC projects, students, journalists, and esteemed members of think tanks. This event brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, celebrating the artistry and cultural connections that define the profound Pakistan-China relationship.

The ‘Nationwide Best BRI Projects Photography Competition’ awards ceremony serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China and encourages a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of their collaboration.