Report by Raja Muhammad Sohail Khan, District Information Officer, Muzaffarabad.
Beijing – Where Modernity Meets Culture, Home to 21.76 Million
Digital Media’s Impact on Traditional Media: Challenges in China
China’s Media Dominance: Millions of Websites, Thousands of Newspapers, and More
Discovering Profound Humanity in China: Unforgettable Lessons
Ancient Treasures Preserved: China’s Remarkable Archaeological Sites
In the whirlwind of recent days, I found myself on an exhilarating journey, one that transcended borders and promised to be a transformative experience. The Azad Kashmir government extended a generous recommendation for my participation in a seminar titled “Young Media Professionals of Developing Countries,” orchestrated by the People’s Republic of China. This captivating expedition unfolded between September 13 and 26, 2023, in the vibrant heart of China’s capital, Beijing.
Picture this: a diverse assembly of 44 media professionals from 12 countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, all converging in the epicenter of global dialogue. This event, sponsored by China’s Ministry of Commerce and meticulously organized in collaboration with the China International Communication Group and the Institute of International Studies and Advanced Training, was nothing short of extraordinary.
Accompanying me on this incredible journey were five remarkable individuals from Pakistan, each with their unique contributions to our delegation. Among them were Mr. Zameer Abbas, Secretary Information, Gilgit-Baltistan; Mr. Syed Saad Ali, Deputy Director Information, Sindh; Mr. Hafeez Baloch, Publicity Officer, Gwadar Development Authority, Balochistan; Ms. Hafsa Dar, Information Officer, Press Information Department, Islamabad; and Mr. Adnan Hamid, representing the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad.
However, our Pakistani contingent was far from alone in this international symposium. Delegates from Sri Lanka, Iran, Iraq, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Bahamas, Palestine, Suriname, and South Sudan added their unique perspectives to the diverse mix. Our journey began with a simple message and a digital ticket sent via WhatsApp from the Chinese Embassy on September 11. The next day, September 12, marked the stamping of passport visas at the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad, a symbolic gesture of welcome. And on September 13, at 9:40 AM local time, we embarked on our flight from Islamabad to the enchanting city of Urumqi, courtesy of China Southern Airlines. Urumqi served as our first stepping stone into the world of China.
As our plane descended over Beijing, we were welcomed by a city that seamlessly blended the ancient with the modern. The dynamic metropolis, adorned with its historic heritage and towering skyscrapers, beckoned us with open arms. Yet, a three-hour time difference between Beijing and Islamabad meant that we touched down in the early hours of the morning, local time.
Our gracious hosts from the China International Communication Group (CICG) awaited us at the airport, ready to guide us through the wonders of China. After a swift departure from the airport and a journey spanning approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, we finally arrived at our accommodation hotel around 2:30 AM.
Despite our late arrival, we found ourselves in the midst of an unfortunate twist of fate – we had missed the grand inaugural ceremony of the seminar, scheduled for September 13. However, our indefatigable spirit for knowledge prevailed. We were determined not to waste a moment of this extraordinary opportunity. Rest could wait, for we were here to learn, to soak in every experience. Consequently, myself and Hafeez Baloch made a swift decision. On September 14, at 10:00 AM, we eagerly joined the seminar, ready to seize the day.
The training sessions that followed were held within the confines of our accommodation hotel, meticulously arranged for our enrichment. The front row, reserved for the Pakistani delegation, exemplified the warm hospitality of our hosts.
The first lecture, “China’s National Conditions and Culture,” was an eye-opener. Sun Liangying, an Assistant Research Fellow at the World Economic and Politics Institute of the China Academy of Social Sciences, offered a mesmerizing glimpse into China’s governance and administrative intricacies, unveiling the layers of China’s rich culture. As a token of their hospitality, we were gifted a comprehensive book detailing President Xi Jinping’s governance, a treasure trove of insights that I eagerly anticipated exploring in my free time.
The following day brought another enlightening lecture, this time by former Ambassador Sun Jiwen. Titled “The Concept and Common Interests of the Belt and Road Initiative,” it delved into China’s foreign policy, code of conduct, and contemporary challenges. The discourse expanded to various projects spanning different nations as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. It was a stark contrast, highlighting China’s commitment to global development against a backdrop of global instability.
September 15 promised two more thought-provoking lectures. The first, “The Development and Establishment of Online Media in China,” was presented by Wang Xiaohui, Chief Editor of China.com.cn. This lecture held a special resonance for us as media professionals. It offered deep insights into how online media had ascended in China, reshaping the media landscape and impacting the traditional print industry. It was a reflection of trends we were witnessing in our own homeland.
Wang Xiaohui shared that China.com.cn was a major online media platform in China, basking in widespread popularity. In response to my query, he revealed that China boasted a staggering 3.8 million news websites, and the digital revolution was posing significant challenges to traditional publishing houses.
Our second lecture on the same day, “Chinese Media in the Modern Era and Communication,” was presented by Li Yang, the Director of Editorial Duties at China Daily. Li divulged that China boasted a remarkable 1,810 newspapers, 120 TV stations, and 380 TV channels, all operating under the watchful eye of government supervision. The subsequent Q&A session unearthed the intricate dynamics of media in China, revealing the government’s thorough scrutiny and approval of all published content.
Intriguingly, my question at this juncture seemed to strike a chord with our Chinese counterparts. I inquired about the concept of freedom of expression, deemed a fundamental human right. I posed the question of whether the stringent restrictions imposed on social media platforms in China infringed upon these fundamental rights. The response offered a unique perspective: in China, where basic necessities of life were ensured and government intervention promptly addressed any issues, the public was encouraged not to engage in futile online debates. It was a viewpoint that sparked contemplation, as we navigated the fine line between social connection and digital discourse.
September 16th heralded a new chapter with a lecture titled “Media Development and International Cooperation in China,” presented by XuQinduo, the Chief Editor of China.com.cn. This discourse held particular relevance as it explored the impact of digital media on traditional media, a transition paralleling developments in Pakistan. It was revealed that digital media had indeed cast its spell in China, mirroring the transformation we were witnessing back home.
The same day unveiled another facet of China’s rich cultural tapestry as we visited the Beijing National Film Museum. Themodern museum, a treasure trove of cinematic artifacts and human interests, provided a glimpse into the captivating world of film.
September 17th held an unparalleled experience as we embarked on a pilgrimage to the legendary Great Wall of China. A dream shared by travelers worldwide, it stood as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. We marveled at the architectural marvel, standing in awe of its grandeur. Interactions with fellow travelers from across the globe only enriched the experience. However, a sudden health setback on my return marred the day’s end, leading me to a local clinic where Dr. Hu’s professionalism and warmth left an indelible impression.
Dr. Hu’s continued care and friendly conversations offered a silver lining amidst health concerns. It was a testament to the efficiency and compassion of China’s healthcare system.
September 19th ushered in a change of scenery as we boarded a flight to Dunhuang, a charming city nestled in Gansu Province. A modest population of two hundred thousand belied the city’s international facilities, including an international airport, a testament to China’s commitment to connecting the world. The city’s state-of-the-art infrastructure left me in awe, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Dunhuang, with its picturesque beauty, beckoned with open arms. Yet, my health woes persisted, rendering me unable to partake in the opening ceremony of the 13th China Digital Publishing Expo and its subsequent exhibition on September 20th. It was a regrettable missed opportunity, but the allure of Dunhuang still awaited.
The morning of September 21st saw us embarking on a pilgrimage of a different kind, a visit to the historic Mogao Caves. These ancient caverns, over a thousand years old, stood as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving a myriad of 1,004 interconnected caves housing sculptures of the Buddha and ancient human handprints. The sheer scale of this treasure trove, spanning 45,000 square feet, left us in awe.
Exploring the Singing Sand Mountains in Dunhuang proved a unique and enchanting experience. The undulating sand dunes conjured an otherworldly landscape, where tradition and modernity seamlessly blended. Traditional Tanghulu clothing, local culture, and a captivating musical night event added layers to this memorable journey.
As my health gradually improved, the transformative power of travel and the splendor of diverse landscapes began to rejuvenate my spirits. China’s kaleidoscope of experiences continued to unfold before me, each moment a new chapter waiting to be written. And I was eager to share more of this incredible voyage with all who cared to listen.
The historical significance of the Great Wall of Han Dynasty, Hecangcheng Relic Site, and Yumen Pass, spanning millennia, was awe-inspiring. These enduring structures stood as living testaments to ancient civilizations and their remarkable legacies.
Interactions with local students, their warm welcome, and shared experiences were heartwarming. In these moments of cultural exchange, I found the true essence of travel—the connections we forge with people from different walks of life.
Attending a Large-Scale Performance Drama in Dunhuang, a blend of modern technology and rich tradition, was nothing short of remarkable. The audience’s enthusiastic reception underscored the magic of preserving heritage in contemporary forms.
On September 23rd, our journey led us to Sub, a village in Dunhuang. Despite its sparse population, Sube boasted state-of-the-art infrastructure for the arts, including a world-class stadium. Here, we embraced traditional attire, indulged in horseback riding and archery, and reveled in the rich tapestry of Mongolian culture. The warm reception and local performances left us feeling profoundly honored and privileged.
Our adventure took an environmentally conscious turn as we explored a solar project capable of generating a colossal 1,000 megawatts of electricity. This technological marvel, dedicated to green energy, showcased China’s commitment to a sustainable future. Witnessing how this project contributed to fulfilling fifty percent of Tang Hang’s electricity needs was nothing short of inspiring.
As we concluded our visit to Tang Hang, I reflected on the past four days. Despite the health challenges I faced, this short sojourn in Tang Hang had etched the most indelible memories of my journey. Its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere had left an indelible mark on my heart.
On September 24th, our homeward journey to Beijing began. September 25th, our final day, unfolded as a shopping adventure at Beijing’s renowned Pearl Market. Here, we encountered a familiar narrative, where initial price quotes often bore little resemblance to the final bargain. Yet, in the bustling marketplace of haggling and commerce, we discovered yet another facet of China’s rich tapestry.
This voyage, with its unexpected twists and turns, had unfolded before me like a treasure chest of experiences. As I return home, I carry with me a trove of memories, lessons, and newfound insights. My journey through China had been a symphony of culture, history, and hospitality, one that I am eager to share with all those who have joined me on this odyssey. And as my travels continue, I look forward to unraveling more captivating stories from around the world.
