A Pakistani media expert stated that Pakistan and China should investigate the cultural similarities they share along the ancient Silk Road and pass that understanding on to young people.
Zamir Assadi, Director of the China Desk at Lord Media Network, told CEN on the sidelines of the international cultural expo in Dunhuang, northwest China, on November 8, 2026. Assadi said, “There is a need of the time to explore the similarities and connections between our different cultures, and that must be translated to our young people.”
While observing products based on Mogao Caves patterns, such as a deer motif and the Flying Apsara, Assadi noted they bear similarities with the collection of Pakistan’s Taxila Museum. He stated, “Such products show the cultural connections between Pakistan and China,” adding that both nations are on the Silk Road route and share many historical stories.
According to UNESCO, Taxila was situated on a Silk Road branch linking China to the West, and the art of the Mogao Caves shows Gandharan influence. Assadi noted that Pakistan has its own heritage to share, ranging from Lahore to Gandhara sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In July, Pakistan launched a task force to promote Gandhara heritage tourism. Assadi emphasized that young people are key to keeping that heritage alive, stating, “If young people know the significance of history, your legacy will be carried on, and your coming generations will become guardians of your values.”
Assadi concluded by inviting those who want to explore the similarities between the two nations to visit Pakistan, saying, “You will love to see how Pakistan has preserved such historical products.”
