On the afternoon of July 1, 2026, the “Pakistani Art Exhibition,” jointly organized by the Center for Pakistan Studies at Shenzhen University, the Institute of Area and International Communication Studies at Shenzhen University, and the School of Foreign Languages at Shenzhen University, was successfully held in Room 2635, Huiwen Building, Yuehai Campus. Spearheaded by Professor Dai Yonghong, Dean of the School of Foreign Languages and Director of the Institute of Area and International Communication Studies at Shenzhen University and the Center for Pakistan Studies at Shenzhen University, and hosted by Assistant Professor Wang Xiangyu, Deputy Director of the Center for Pakistan Studies, the event attracted numerous faculty and students to experience the cultural charm of Pakistan firsthand.

Building Bridges Through Culture, Witnessing China-Pakistan Friendship

At the opening of the event, Wang Xiangyu extended a warm welcome to all attendees. She introduced that the precious artworks on display were sponsored by the Embassy of Pakistan in China. Aimed at using cultural exchange as a bridge, the exhibition sought to enhance cross-cultural understanding and dialogue between Chinese and Pakistani youth by showcasing the rich and diverse culture and art of Pakistan.

“This is not only a visual feast but also a vivid testament to China-Pakistan friendship,” Wang remarked. She added that the Center for Pakistan Studies will continue to launch featured activities to promote youth exchanges between China and Pakistan, encouraging students to broaden their understanding of foreign cultures and effectively improve their cross-cultural communication skills through such small-scale cultural events.      

Himalayan Rock Salt Steals the Show; International Student Sparks Keen Interest On-site

During the presentation and explanation session, Ishan Ullah, a Pakistani postdoctoral fellow under the supervision of Dean Dai Yonghong, served as a “cultural ambassador,” providing detailed introductions to the historical origins, craftsmanship, and symbolic meanings of the artworks. He noted that all exhibits were handcrafted and originated from the four provinces of Pakistan.

Among the displays, Himalayan rock salt (also known as rose salt), sourced from the salt mines in the Himalayan mountains of Pakistan, became the highlight of the event. Characterized by its unique pink hue—derived from rich mineral content such as iron—its natural and rustic beauty sparked lively discussions and keen interest among the attendees.

As an indispensable spiritual vehicle of China-Pakistan people-to-people exchange, art exhibitions build bridges for communication and understanding between the youth of both nations. Sharing his excitement, Ishan Ullah mentioned his previous invitation to participate in a similar art exhibition in Chengdu. He expressed his thrill at now engaging in cultural exchange in Shenzhen and looked forward to continuing such activities to foster deeper interactions with Chinese students.

The event not only allowed participants to experience the cultural charm of Pakistan up close but also injected new vitality into deepening China-Pakistan friendship and promoting cross-cultural dialogue. Looking ahead, the Center will continue to host a wider variety of international cultural exchange activities. We look forward to your participation in exploring the beauty of our diverse world!

Proofreaders:

First Proofreader: Wang Xiangyu

Second Proofreader: Fu Le

Third Proofreader: Dai Yonghong