Dressed in her traditional Balochi attire, Aidah stood out as a vibrant symbol of cultural exchange during the recent “Discover SCO - Explore Magnificent Xinjiang” learning expedition held recently. The event brought together 100 international students from 35 countries representing nearly 50 Chinese universities, including a vibrant contingent from Pakistan, to explore China’s culturally rich northwest, Gwadar Pro reported on Wednesday.

“I’m completely overwhelmed by Xinjiang’s beauty!” the Ocean University of China student exclaimed. “The multicultural harmony here is breathtaking – the colorful traditional costumes, the rich cultural diversity, the mouthwatering cuisine and stunning landscapes have created memories I’ll cherish forever.”

During a visit to the 2,000-year-old ruins of the Jiaohe City in Turpan-a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest, oldest and best-preserved earthen architectural complex, Aidah reflected on the profound history surrounding her. “These ancient walls tell stories of peaceful coexistence that no textbook could capture,” she said.

“Seeing Uyghur, Han, Kazakh, and other communities thriving together in Xinjiang has completely reshaped my understanding of multicultural societies.” Further exploration took the group to the Nanshan research base of Xinjiang Agricultural University, the Xinjiang Museum and the bustling Grand Bazaar, where they witnessed firsthand the region’s vibrant ethnic harmony.

From high-tech cotton fields to ecological research stations, students from SCO countries marveled at Xinjiang’s balanced approach to development. “These agricultural innovations could revolutionize food security in many countries,” remarked a Burundian student from Central University of Finance and Economics, examining hydroponic vegetables.

“I’ll carry Xinjiang’s message of unity in diversity back to Pakistan,” Aidah said. “The warmth of the people here, the breathtaking landscapes, the technological achievements - these are stories that need to be told.”

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China