ISLAMABAD: Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed has strongly criticized the Western media’s attempts to demonize China and stressed the importance of Pakistani voices in countering such propaganda.
Addressing as a chief guest at a book launching event in Islamabad he called for greater efforts to promote understanding between China and Pakistan.
The China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted the book launch for “Xinjiang ke Khushal Uyghur,” on Tuesday authored by renowned columnist Naz Parveen.
Mushahid Hussain Sayed in his remarks congratulated Naz Parveen for her exceptional work and lauded the book for its communicative style and insightful content. He talked about the evolution of China, highlighting its revolutionary reforms.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI in his remarks said the unique and cherished relationship between Pakistan and China is marked by strategic mutual trust and mutual support, nurtured by successive generations, and strengthened by transformational projects like CPEC.
He said Naz Parveen, the author and director of China Window, has made notable contributions through her writings and facilitated a deeper understanding of China’s culture and traditions.
He added the author of the book gives a detailed account based on observations and experiences, particularly in Kashgar and Urumqi, and debunks many of the motivated narratives emanating from the West regarding the treatment of Uyghurs in China’s Xingjian Region.
Prof. Zamir Ahmed Awan, founding chairperson of the Global Silk Route Research Alliance emphasized the significance of cultural diplomacy in understanding China and praised the author for her accessible and engaging writing style. He elaborated on the rich cultural heritage and history of China’s Xinjiang region.
Professor Dr. Azhar Ahmed, Independent Analyst commended the author for her achievement in publishing such a detailed and vivid travelogue. He praised the book’s ability to transport readers into the center of Xinjiang, making them feel as if they were alongside the author.
He also stressed the importance of such works in countering negative perceptions and promoting a deeper understanding of China’s cultural landscape.
Nabila Jaffer, Research Analyst expressed her admiration for the book’s artistic narrative, which she found to be a refreshing departure from typical political discourses. She said the book’s emphasis on personal experiences and cultural exchanges, which are crucial for fostering stronger ties between Pakistan and China.
Naz Parveen, the author, shared her motivation for writing the book, which stemmed from her past experiences at China Window in Peshawar and her desire to counter the negative propaganda surrounding China’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims.
Earlier, Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director of the China Pakistan Study Centre in his introductory remarks, introduced the book. He added the importance of producing more literature on China-Pakistan cultural relations in Urdu to reach a broader audience.
Academics, students, members of the diplomatic community, and civil society attended the book launch.
