Music Bridges China-Pakistan Friendship as Diplomatic Ties

By Meng Fanrong

CHENGDU, Sept. 14, (China Economic Net)- A series of musical exchanges in China have highlighted the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan as the two countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

The Consulate General of Pakistan in Chengdu hosted a reception to mark the milestone on September 10. A special Qawwali performance by Pakistan’s Marifat Sufi Band emerged as a highlight of the evening and the event was a shared stage: Chinese and Pakistani calligraphy artists also engaged in creative dialogue through an exhibition of their works.

Qawwali, a centuries-old South Asian devotional tradition rooted in Sufi mysticism, draws on poetry to express themes of love, longing and spiritual union. The band’s stirring renditions offered guests an immersive experience of the shared cultural heritage between the two nations, while the calligraphy exhibition added a visual dimension to the cross-cultural encounter.

The celebrations continued on September 11 and 12, when the Marifat Sufi folk band performed at two events in Sichuan. Joined by Chinese artists, the Pakistani band conveyed love and peace through music, presenting authentic traditional folk melodies from Pakistan. The performances drew warm responses from local audiences and underscored the power of music to transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries.

Pakistani Marifat Sufi band plays in Sichuan, photo by Consulate General of Pakistan in Chengdu

In Beijing, the recent Great Wall Concert brought together Pakistani artists, including contemporary Qawwali artist Zain Zohaib, and their Chinese counterparts for a feast of music and dance. Staged beneath the Great Wall’s towering ramparts, the performances unfolded with monumental sweep and emotional immediacy, striking the audience with visceral force.