BY: Khalid Taimur Akram
On 22th August 2023 One Day International Conference on “Global Civilization Initiative given by President Xi Jinping and it’s Impact on Belt and Road Initiative” was held. It was jointly organized by Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Peshawar, and Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan.
The conference aimed to integrate national and international scholars and intellectuals to discuss Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), a significant Chinese vision. The purpose was to discuss the visionary models put forward by President Xi Jinping, focusing on their contribution to global prosperity. The conference illuminated the principles of equality, mutual learning, dialogue, and inclusiveness as proposed by China, fostering cultural exchanges that transcend differences and promote mutual understanding.
The conference was moderated by Ms. Wajeeha Khan and Ms. Zara Jamaal, and was attended by around 200 students of the Political Science Department at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University. The opening remarks given by Mr. Khalid Taimoor Akram, Executive Director, PRCCSF. He elaborated the role of China Communication University of China in advocating the concept of a Community with a Shared Future. The pillars of this concept include the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), Global Development Initiative (GDI), and Global Security Initiative (GSI), all of which strengthen people-to-people connections and connectivity.
In his online speech, Professor Li Huailiang, Dean of the Institute for a Community with Shared Future at Communication University of China, elaborated on the concept’s impact on global peace and development based on International Law. He highlighted China’s role as an economic driving force in the region, connecting nations worldwide.
Dr. Sumaira Gull, Head of the Political Science Department, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, spoke about how the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) can influence local cultures and traditions. She emphasized that GCI’s interconnectedness through technological advancements could showcase local culture, food, and traditions, fostering unity and appreciation worldwide. She recommended enhancing cultural exchange programs.
Ms. Areesha Shafqat, Research Analyst, PRCCSF discussed GCI’s potential to boost global economies. She explained how the initiative seeks a harmonious world characterized by cooperation, connectivity, and shared prosperity. She acknowledged China’s leadership in creating sustainable peace and prosperity, addressing challenges, and suggesting ways to overcome obstacles.
Professor Dr. Zhang Yanqiu, Deputy Dean of the Institute of Community with Shared Future at Communication University of China, who gave online speech, spoke about Cultural Harmony through GCI as a key element for tolerant societies. She emphasized the importance of economic cooperation and political trust, promoting cultural diversity, mutual learning, and inclusivity through media-driven dialogues.
Dr. Zhang Yu, a Ph.D. Scholar from the Communication University of China, highlighted GCI’s role in promoting global peace and prosperity, encouraging respect for diverse cultures, in her virtual speech.
Dr. Zarmina Baloch, Assistant Professor, Political Science Department of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, discussed art and culture’s role in promoting cross-cultural understanding. She emphasized GCI’s pursuit of peace, justice, democracy, and freedom as common aspirations, advocating for finding common ground while respecting differences.
Three M-Phil Students from Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University (Ms. Nayab, Ms. Syeda Manal, and Ms. Sana Jang) shared their analysis on Global Civilization Initiatives and its impact on the Belt and Road Initiative. They emphasized deepening cultural diversity and the role of China-Pakistan friendship, along with the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan’s economic development.
Mr. Zaildar Ahsan Shah, Advocate, High Court and Advisor on International Relations, PRCCSF, delivered closing remarks. He highlighted the importance of a shared future vision, sustainable development, and collaborative cultural exchanges for mutual learning among civilizations.
In conclusion, Professor Dr. Safia Ahmed, Vice Chancellor, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, expressed her gratitude to the organizers, speakers, and attendees for contributing to a valuable and insightful conference.
