LAHORE, Feb 11 (APP): The Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) Wednesday appreciated Punjab government for successfully organizing a peaceful and well-coordinated Basant festival, describing it as a commendable step toward reviving Pakistan’s rich cultural traditions while ensuring public safety and social harmony.
PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain stated here that smooth conduct of Basant festival reflects the government’s commitment to promoting cultural activities in a responsible and secure manner. He said that such festivals play a vital role in strengthening national identity, boosting domestic and international tourism, and improving Pakistan’s soft image at the global level.
He added that revival of cultural festivals sends a positive message to the international community regarding Pakistan’s stability and cultural openness.
The joint chamber’s Senior Vice President said that cultural festivals like Basant have the potential to evolve into internationally recognized cultural landmarks if organized on a broader, well-planned, and institutionalized scale. He highlighted that inviting foreign delegations, artists, and cultural representatives particularly from China can significantly enhance people-to-people connectivity, promote mutual cultural appreciation, and strengthen cultural diplomacy between the two countries. He added that joint cultural performances, exhibitions, and exchange programs can serve as an effective soft-power bridge, reinforcing Pakistan-China friendship beyond economic cooperation.
PCJCCI Vice President Zafar Iqbal highlighted that cultural celebrations contribute not only to social cohesion but also to economic activity by supporting local businesses, artisans, small traders, and the hospitality sector. He suggested that regular and well-managed cultural festivals can complement economic cooperation under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) by creating an enabling environment for tourism development, creative industries, and cross-cultural engagement.
Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General PCJCCI, stated that PCJCCI strongly encourages the government to continue promoting Pakistan’s cultural heritage through safe, inclusive, and well-managed festivals. He added that structured cultural exchange programmes aligned with Pakistan-China cooperation frameworks can further deepen mutual understanding, strengthen people-to-people ties, and foster long-term friendship between the two nations.
The joint chamber expressed optimism that the government will institutionalize such cultural initiatives in the future, ensuring that festivals are celebrated sustainably and inclusively, contributing to social harmony, international goodwill, tourism promotion, and long-term economic growth.
