Islamabad: The bonds of friendship between Pakistan and China are strong despite the cultural differences between the two countries. To promote goodwill and also understanding of this difference, the embassy of China has been sending Pakistani women from different walks of life to visit China and experience the hospitality and cultural sites and sounds of the country.

The groups include artists, entrepreneurs, teachers, ladies of the Foreign Office and those from showbiz. To show her appreciation and discuss the visit, a member of one group, Fauzia Memon, a woman with multiple interests, hosted a lunch at her residence which was attended by other group members and a few other ladies. The guest of honour was the friendly wife of the ambassador of China, Diana Bao who is also on the Board of the International Foreign Women’s Association. (IFWA).

It was a working day so there were a few late arrivals but those who were present set the ball rolling and related their experiences about the wonderful time they had and how much they had learned about the country. Some of them spoke of the shopping and how inexpensive things were even those in high end stores; a couple of them who were impressed with the heritage sites marveled at the way they had been preserved and were looked after; the art lovers were in raptures over the artwork and all of them had taken the opportunity to buy pearls as gifts for friends and family!

When questioned about women from China coming on reciprocal trips the guest of honour replied, “Maybe next year” but I think she was being diplomatic and they are probably waiting for an invitation from the government of Pakistan! One of the ladies did say something to that effect but she only got smiles in return, which kind of confirmed the presumption. When they do come it will be chance to show our appreciation and the hospitality for which we are generally known.

Lunch featured Syrian — or Mediterranean — cuisine and there was a great interest shown by the ladies about which dish was cooked with what ingredients, so it turned out to be a kind of cooking lesson as well.

Courtesy: The News

www.thenews.com.pk/print/83242-Chinese-hospitality-appreciated