Nationwide photography competition inaugurated to spotlight progress of CPEC, other BRI initiatives

Islamabad: A nationwide photography competition was inaugurated here on Monday afternoon to spotlight the progress of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other initiatives within China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Pakistan.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Pakistan-China Institute (PCI), initiated this endeavor.

A meeting chaired by Secretary Information and Broadcasting Zahoor Ahmed was convened to discuss preparations for the “Nationwide Best Belt & Road Initiative Projects Photography Competition,” which aims to capture the essence and impact of CPEC and other BRI undertakings in Pakistan.

In attendance at the meeting were Mustafa Syed, Head of PCI, Muhammad Asim Khichi, Executive Director General / Principal Information Officer (PIO), Ms. Ambreen Jan, Director General of External Publicity Wing, Raisa Adil, Deputy Director General from PID, and other senior officials from the ministry and its affiliated agencies. Secretary Information and Broadcasting Zahoor Ahmed commended PCI for launching the photography competition, emphasizing that it would not only showcase CPEC and BRI projects but also further strengthen the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and China.

He expressed gratitude for the valuable partnership that has led to the completion of vital projects in areas such as road infrastructure, railways, and energy, benefiting both nations.

Secretary Information and Broadcasting assured PCI of full cooperation and directed affiliated state run departments like PTV, Radio Pakistan, PID, EP Wing, IP Wing, DEMP, and others to utilize their multimedia platforms to ensure the competition’s success.

Mustafa Syed, Head of PCI, outlined the competition’s goals, procedures, and timeline. According to the schedule, photos related to CPEC and BRI projects in Pakistan, categorized as “Infrastructure and Development,” “People and Stories,” and “Environmental Impact,” can be submitted until October 07.

The winners, selected by a panel of renowned photographers, artists, and relevant government bodies on October 08-09, will be announced on October 10. The prize distribution ceremony and exhibition, co-hosted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Pakistan-China Institute, are scheduled for October 12, 2023, and will be attended by dignitaries, officials, and the media.

It was also disclosed that the Pakistan-China Institute, a non-governmental, non-partisan, non-political think-tank dedicated to fostering people-to-people connections between Pakistan and China, will arrange a trip to China for the award winners, complete with a detailed itinerary and logistical support coordination.