Natasha Baig performs at Beijing gala marking 75 years of Pakistan-China ties

BEIJING: Singer Natasha Baig performed at a gala in the Chinese capital held to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, in an event that brought together diplomats, business figures, media representatives and members of the creative sector.

Baig shared details of the performance on social media, describing the visit as both meaningful and personal. She wrote, "Beijing, thank you for the love," and said she felt "honored to return for my second visit and perform at the Masters Cup Ballroom Dancing Beijing Open 2026."

According to her post, the performance included 'Khushboo', the title track of her album, through which she said she brought "a piece of my soul" to the stage. The song incorporated the poetry of Parveen Shakir, presenting an element of Pakistani literary and musical heritage to an international audience.

Baig also said she performed another piece in recognition of the occasion and the reception she received in China. "In the spirit of Pak-China friendship, I also sang The Great China as a tribute to the warmth, respect, and love I've received here," she wrote.

She thanked the organisers for the invitation and hospitality, specifically expressing gratitude to the CICCC Chairman and Pakistan's ambassador. In the same post, she added, "From Hunza to Beijing - letting music travel."

Gala hosted by embassy and Chinese cultural body

The Star Gala was co-hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan in Beijing and the China International Cultural Communication Centre as part of commemorations for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Pakistan's Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi told the gathering that leaders of both countries over successive generations had built a relationship based on mutual trust, respect and support. He said people-to-people links remained central to the relationship, with cultural exchange continuing to play an important role in maintaining those ties.

Chinese officials also spoke about the significance of cultural engagement. Long Yuxiang, Executive Chairman of the CICCC, referred to the lasting strength of bilateral relations and stressed the value of cultural dialogue in promoting mutual understanding. Zhai Meiqing, President of Xiangjiang Group, highlighted the contribution of cultural and creative industries in strengthening cross-cultural connections.

Bilingual performance draws attention

The gala featured a range of performances reflecting artistic collaboration between Pakistan and China. Baig's presentation, delivered in both Urdu and Chinese, was described by organisers as a notable part of the evening and as adding a distinctive cultural element to the celebrations.

The event was one of a broader series of activities being held to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Beijing. Officials from both countries reiterated their intention to expand cooperation beyond traditional areas into culture, media and youth engagement.

Baig's appearance at the Beijing event reflected that wider emphasis on cultural exchange, with her performance combining music, poetry and a tribute to Pakistan-China friendship during a milestone year in bilateral relations.