BEIJING: Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Syed Jamal Shah, emphasized the importance of building cultural bridges between Pakistan and China, highlighting the significance of people-to-people connections and artistic collaboration. Jamal Shah attended the screening of the film “Ba’Tie Girl” in Beijing, where he presented the Pakistan-China Cultural Exchange Envoy award to the film’s producer, Xie Peng.
While acknowledging the economic importance of trade and commerce within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Jamal Shah underscored the significance of fostering cultural connections. He noted that art and culture serve as effective means of communication and are vital for strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
The film “Ba’Tie Girl” represents a significant cultural collaboration between Pakistan and China. It tells the story of a Chinese female engineer associated with the CPEC and a teenage Pakistani girl who share a passion for soccer. Together, they confront challenges and stereotypes in a remote Pakistani village, ultimately finding their inner strength and empowerment.
The film showcases cross-cultural friendship, mentorship, women’s rights, and the transformative impact of sports on a community. It emphasizes how different cultures can coexist harmoniously and contribute to mutual happiness and progress.
Xie Peng, the film’s producer, highlighted the warm response the film received in Pakistan, expressing the commitment to continue creating Chinese-Pakistan-themed films that promote cultural exchange and friendship. He emphasized that the film represents a heartfelt connection between the peoples of both countries and reflects the sincere friendship between China and Pakistan.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), launched in 2013, has strengthened people-to-people contact and collaboration between the two nations, with Chinese workers and engineers contributing to various projects in Pakistan, and many individuals from both countries engaging in education, professional training, and business opportunities