BEIJING: (Staff Reporter) In a befitting ceremony held at the Pakistan Embassy, Beijing, Ambassador and Mrs. Khalil Hashmi today unveiled the sculptures of Chairman Mao and Quaid-e- Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founding fathers of China and Pakistan respectively. The event was attended, among others, by members of the diplomatic corps, Ms. Mao Xiaoqing, niece of Chairman Mao Zedong, Madame Geng Jing, who and her ancestors had made profound contributions to Pakistan’s development and growth, and Master Yuan Xikun, the world renowned artisan who had made both the sculptures that were put on display at the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Hashmi paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and Chairman Mao, remembering them as two of the most iconic figures of twentieth century who held a common vision of independence, justice, emancipation and self-respect for their nations. The Ambassador also commended Master Yuan Xikun for his craftsmanship and dedication, reflected vividly in the high quality of both the sculptures. He added that the presence of Quaid-e-Azam and Chairman Mao’s sculptures at the Pakistan Embassy would be an apt manifestation of the iron brotherhood signifying the relationship between Pakistan and China.
In addition to the Ambassador, Madame Geng Jing and Master Yuan Xikun also spoke at the event, speaking passionately about the unique, time tested and special friendship between China and Pakistan. They noted that the ceremony to unveil the sculptures of two great leaders was a momentous occasion reaffirming the sentiments of mutual respect, love and affection which capture the essence of China-Pakistan relationship.