Dragon Boat Festival marks anniversary and ties

XINHUA | UPDATED: 2026-06-18 08:02

Pakistanis participate in a dragon boat race to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Dragon Boat Festival in northwestern Pakistan's Charsadda on June 14. XINHUA

To celebrate the anniversary of China-Pakistan friendship, a colorful Dragon Boat Festival, which lands on June 19 this year, was held on Sunday on the banks of the Kabul River in Pakistan's northwest Peshawar city as the two countries marked 75 years of diplomatic relations.

Organized by the China Window, a Chinese cultural center based in Peshawar, the event was attended by numerous officials, athletes, cultural performers, and members of the local and Chinese communities.

On the occasion, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Culture, Tourism and Archaeology Malik Adil Iqbal highlighted the beautiful bond between the two countries, saying the friendship between China and Pakistan has remained rock-solid and unbreakable over the decades.

Iqbal said that the event not only projected a positive image of the province to the world but would also help attract tourists to the country.

Masood Khan, a local businessman, said that the festival transformed the Kabul River into a lively arena of excitement and cultural expression, captivating spectators with the spirit of one of China's most cherished traditions.

"The rhythmic movement of the dragon boats, combined with the festive atmosphere, created a unique spectacle that highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange," he said.

More than 100 boat racers participated in the competitions, divided into different teams, according to the event organizers.

Khan believed that the celebration reflected the growing ties between the two nations and showcased how cultural diplomacy can strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation.

Sohail Ahmed, another participant, said that the movement of boats to the powerful beat of drums created a thrilling and inspiring scene, while spectators watched in awe.

"The festival is more than just an event. With vibrant cultural performances and an energetic audience, it became a celebration of unity, mutual respect and lasting friendship," he added.

China Window administrator Amjad Aziz Malik said that the Dragon Boat Festival has not only introduced an ancient Chinese cultural tradition to Pakistan, but has also played an important role in bringing the two nations' people closer together.

"We are planning to hold more such festivals in the coming years to further deepen the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China," he said.