BEIJING: Pakistan’s Consul General in Guangzhou, Sardar Muhammad, participated in the 2025 Southern China Book Fair to enhance cultural relations and foster literary exchange between Pakistan and China.
The event, showcasing over 1,500 publishers from around the world, served as a platform for the diplomat to engage with Chinese publishing leaders and explore opportunities for collaboration in literature and creative works.
At the fair, Sardar Muhammad was involved in the launch of the bilingual book Low-Carbon Living: Green Cuisine at Your Fingertips by documentary producer Lingling Li. The Consul General drew attention to the book’s inclusion of Pakistan’s famous dish, Biryani, noting that its vegetarian adaptations reflect the theme of sustainable living while retaining authentic flavors.
Drawing a parallel between Pakistani and Chinese culinary traditions, he compared the layered preparation of Biryani to the Chinese rice dumpling, Zongzi. “Both dishes, whether Biryani for Eid in Pakistan or Zongzi for the Dragon Boat Festival in China, symbolize a shared spirit of togetherness,” he emphasized. “Diversity enriches, but shared values unite us.”
In addition to the book launch, the Consul General engaged with representatives from local media outlets, including Southern Metropolis Daily and Yangcheng Evening News, to discuss future cultural collaborations. “Our people-to-people links continue to grow stronger,” he stated.
The 2025 Southern China Book Fair, held at the Canton Fair Complex, served as a vital platform for international cultural exchange, with Pakistan’s rich literary and culinary heritage prominently featured this year.
