Guangzhou / China : The 2026 Southern China Book Fair officially opened in Guangzhou and will run for five days, from August 27 to 31. As one of South China’s largest annual cultural events, this year’s fair spans approximately 40,000 square metres, featuring 31 themed pavilions and bringing together more than 300 publishing institutions from China and abroad.H.E. Mr. Sardar Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Guangzhou, attended the opening ceremony of the Eurasian Pavilion at the 2026 Southern China Book Fair and delivered opening remarks.
In his address, the Consul General reflected on Pakistan’s fruitful participation in the 2025 Southern China Book Fair, which featured traditional Pakistani musical performances and exhibition by one Pakistani enterprise. He highlighted that Pakistan has further expanded its participation this year with the launch of its dedicated Pakistan National Pavilion.
Three Pakistani enterprises and the country’s leading publishing institution are participating in the exhibition, marking a significant expansion of Pakistan’s cultural showcase and trade exchanges at the Fair.
The Consul General emphasized that books serve as a timeless bridge connecting different languages, peoples and civilizations. Through platforms such as the Southern China Book Fair, Pakistan remains committed to sharing its rich cultural heritage and spirit of friendship with Chinese audiences.
He noted that this year’s event carries special significance as 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China—a relationship forged on mutual trust, respect and shared aspirations for peace and development.
He further pointed out that, in Islamic tradition, the first divine revelation was “Iqra”, meaning “Read,” highlighting the fundamental importance accorded to learning and knowledge.
The opening event also featured authentic Rubab performance by one Pakistani artist sponsored by the Consulate General. The captivating melodies and rhythms of the traditional music enchanted visitors and vividly showcased the richness and charm of Pakistan’s folk artistic traditions.
Pakistan’s Publishing House Ferozsons (Pvt.) Ltd., is participating in the Fair under invitation, bringing a diverse collection of authoritative books and literary works from Pakistan for display and exchange. Notably, the Publishing House has been translating popular Chinese children’s books into Urdu, bringing outstanding Chinese literary works to young readers in Pakistan.
In addition, the National Pavilion of Pakistan features a themed photo exhibition celebrating the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. The historical photographs vividly portray the enduring friendship and close cooperative ties between the two countries, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of the remarkable journey of bilateral relations and the profound friendship built over the past 75 years.
The enduring friendship between Pakistan and China over the past 75 years has been strengthened significantly by people-to-people exchanges. In interview with People’s Daily, on the sidelines of the event, the Consul General expressed the hope that the Pakistan National Pavilion would encourage more visitors to learn about Pakistan and promote closer cooperation between the two countries in culture, publishing, education and the creative industries.
He warmly invited visitors to explore the Pavilion, engage with the exhibitors, and experience the vibrant creativity, rich culture and warm hospitality of Pakistan.
