Islamabad, February 22, 2026: The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan hosted a vibrant celebration of Chinese New Year 2026 — the Year of the Horse — combined with an Iftar dinner, blending Spring Festival traditions with the spirit of the holy month of Ramazan.
Held under the theme “开门过大年 · 中巴携手同行” (Opening the Door to the Great New Year: China-Pakistan Hand in Hand), the event brought together diplomats, government officials, community leaders, business figures, and members of the Chinese and Pakistani communities. Guests broke their fast together, symbolizing cultural harmony, mutual respect, and the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik attended the event as chief guest and reaffirmed Pakistan’s deep appreciation for its strong and time-tested partnership with China, highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation in energy and economic development. Coordinator to the Prime Minister Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan also participated, emphasizing the strategic relationship that continues to drive shared prosperity, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The ceremony was presided over by Jiang Zaidong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan. In his remarks, Ambassador Jiang described the Year of the Horse as a symbol of vitality, perseverance, and rapid progress, expressing confidence that China-Pakistan relations would move forward with renewed momentum through enhanced economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges.
The evening featured traditional Chinese cultural performances, including music and dance, alongside an elaborate iftar featuring authentic Chinese and Pakistani cuisine. Festive décor such as red lanterns, symbolic hongbao (red envelopes), fireworks motifs, and bilingual banners added to the celebratory atmosphere. Embassy officials, Chinese community members, Pakistani government representatives, and business leaders posed for group photographs wearing red scarves beneath the banner “Chinese New Year, China Pakistan Go Together.”
The celebration highlighted the ironclad friendship between Pakistan and China, uniquely blending Lunar New Year festivities with Ramazan observance to reflect unity and goodwill. Participants expressed optimism for deeper cooperation in energy, infrastructure, trade, and other sectors, reaffirming a shared commitment to peace, development, and prosperity as the Year of the Horse begins.
