Bridging cultures: Pakistan meets China

A classroom at Shiqiao Primary School in Faku county, Northeast China's Liaoning province, erupted into giggles as Mir Hussain Shahzad, a Pakistani medical student, taught Chinese children to greet each other in Urdu, the national language of Pakistan.

In that lesson two years ago, English vocabulary mingled with Pakistani songs and soccer games. Mir didn't just teach language — he sparked curiosity, connecting a small Chinese town to the heart of Pakistan.

As 2026 approaches, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan, many young Pakistanis in China, like Mir, are actively promoting this enduring friendship through personal experiences and open exchange.

Mir, a recent graduate of Shenyang Medical College with a bachelor's degree in clinical medicine, has not only excelled academically but also stood out as a student leader, participating in and organizing volunteer programs, sports events, and community service activities.

This year, he led a team of Pakistani students in the First Liaoning Dragon Boat Open — a traditional Chinese sport that was entirely unfamiliar to them.

At first, they struggled. "We couldn't understand the commands or row in sync," he recalled. But after months of dedicated practice, they proudly finished in fourth place.

"On the water, we were competitors; off the water, we were friends cheering each other on. Sports brought us closer," Mir said.

His spirit of solidarity wasn't limited to sports. On campus, Mir took part in blood donation drives, viewing each contribution as more than just a medical act. "To me, it reflects the idea of 'lifesaving without borders'," he said.

Mir also volunteered at free clinics for residents, where he shared traditional Pakistani medical knowledge in Urdu while learning about traditional Chinese medicine from the locals. "Through this exchange, two different medical cultures blended in the collision," he said.

Service spirit

The experiences of Inzamam Ul Haq, a PhD student at Liaoning University, extend beyond the campus, exemplifying the China-Pakistan community of shared future. For three consecutive years, he has participated in the 70-year desertification control project in Liaoning's Zhangwu county.

In the vast expanse of sandy land, he dug pits and planted saplings. "We planted over 50 saplings in the scorching heat," recalled the 30-year-old business management major.

His actions were inspired by local hero Li Dongkui, who single-handedly protected 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) of land. This experience reshaped Inzamam's understanding of China's concept of "ecological civilization", highlighting the importance of grassroots involvement in environmental governance.

While Pakistan faces similar challenges with desertification, Inzamam notes the absence of such dedicated figures. "Li's story can motivate Pakistanis, especially the youth, to combat climate crises through community-led initiatives," he said.

His PhD research on sustainable business practices draws directly from these insights, exploring how companies can pursue profit while also protecting the environment.

Inzamam also speaks warmly of the support and kindness shown by his Chinese colleagues. One of his most cherished memories is a 2023 campus celebration of Pakistan's Independence Day. Chinese and Pakistani flags stood side by side on stage, Pakistani students gave speeches and performed traditional dances, while Chinese students guided them around the campus and hosted a grand feast.

"It was really heartwarming," he said, viewing the experience as proof of the two countries' ironclad friendship. "Being away from home yet celebrating with our brothers showed this isn't just diplomacy — it's a deep emotional attachment between people."

Empowering dreams

Among Saira Ghafoor's most treasured moments in China is a photo of herself wearing traditional attire of a Chinese ethnic group, adorned with delicate embroidery and silver ornaments.

It was taken during a cultural event at Jiangxi Agricultural University in Nanchang, Jiangxi province, where Ghafoor — a Pakistani PhD student specializing in plant genetics — learned about Chinese ethnic costumes while Chinese students tried on traditional Pakistani clothing.

"This moment captured the true spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and cultural appreciation," she said. "We shared laughter, which reminds me how bridges between people are built heart to heart."

Ghafoor's journey to China is marked by personal milestones.

While her brother, sister, and brother-in-law have all settled in China, she is the first woman in her family to travel abroad alone — without a husband, brother, or father accompanying her, as she emphasized. Though her family was initially hesitant, they now fully support her decision, seeing China as "the safest country" for international students, especially women.

"I believe my personal experience can inspire all Pakistani girls who dream big. They should have confidence in their abilities. Studying in China is not just about academics; it's about discovering our strength, voice, and place in the global community," Ghafoor said. "The environment here is safe, welcoming, and full of opportunities. Don't let fear hold you back — I want to share this message with all the girls in Pakistan."

Ghafoor's former professor in Pakistan asked for photos of her working in labs in China. These pictures were later printed on campus banners to motivate young Pakistani students.

In Ghafoor's view, China and Pakistan share a future built on mutual growth — economically, culturally, and scientifically. She sees herself as an architect of that future, planning to share her journey through seminars, social media, and exchange programs.

"As a young researcher, I see my role as building academic bridges, fostering innovation, and promoting mutual understanding through my work," she said. "I hope to strengthen this friendship, not just for today, but for generations to come."

Liu Shicheng contributed to this story.

guiqian@i21st.cn