## Pakistani Official Honored with Prestigious Orchid Award for Strengthening Sino-Pakistani Ties

Mr. Zafar Ud-Din Mahmood, a distinguished Pakistani figure, received the esteemed Orchid Award in Beijing on July 10th. This honor recognizes his exceptional contributions to fortifying Pakistan-China friendship and fostering robust people-to-people connections.

The Orchid Award, presented by the Chinese government, acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to enhancing mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and cooperation with China. Mr. Mahmood, serving as Special Assistant to the Former Prime Minister of Pakistan and founder of the organization “Understanding China,” accepted the accolade with profound appreciation. “I thank you for this award,” stated Mr. Mahmood, adding, “and I assure you that I will continue working to promote further understanding and friendship between the two countries.”

Mr. Mahmood has long played a pivotal role in bridging Pakistan and China across diverse sectors including media, education, culture, and economic development. He has actively advocated for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on international platforms and significantly contributed to highlighting grassroots cooperation projects. During the ceremony, Chinese officials commended him as a “true friend of China,” specifically citing his impactful contributions to cultural harmony and public diplomacy.

The Orchid Award not only celebrates Mr. Mahmood’s individual achievements but also signifies China’s broader dedication to peaceful development and mutual respect. These principles are fundamental to the China-Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. Mr. Mahmood observed that this recognition underscores the increasing significance of people-to-people diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and reflects the enduring warmth shared by the peoples of Pakistan and China.

Fluent in Chinese, Mr. Mahmood has dedicated over 50 years to advancing China-Pakistan friendship, establishing himself as a vital living bridge between the two nations.