PM unveils Quaid-e-Azam, Mao Zedong sculptures

PM says artist has wonderfully captured essence of these two iconic leaders

By APP

December 27, 2024

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif unveils the sculptures of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Mao Zedong presented by famous Chinese Sculptor Master Yuan Xikun on December 26, 2024. — APP

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah laid the foundation of Pakistan and Mao Zedong laid the foundation of modern China.

Addressing an event to unveil sculptures of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Chinese leader Mao Zedong at the PM House, the prime minister said Quaid-i-Azam led the Muslims of the Indian subcontinent to the foundation of the new Islamic State of Pakistan. At the same time, Mao played a key role in the foundation of modern China. He added that respect for Chairman Mao Zedong is in the heart of every Pakistani. Chairman Mao’s niece Mao Xiaoqing also graced the event.

Shehbaz underscored the importance of the all-weather strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, describing it as “an anchor of regional stability” and “a beacon of hope for global peace and prosperity”. “We are proud of our collaboration in various fields from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to cultural exchanges, education and defence production,” he said. He said the historic bonds spanning decades were a testament to our shared values of mutual respect, trust and cooperation. The prime minister highlighted, “Today our all-weather strategic partnership is an anchor of regional stability under the challenging global circumstances.”

Appreciating the great work done by Chinese renowned artist and sculptor Yaun Xikum, the prime minister said he had wonderfully captured the essence of these two iconic leaders.

Chinese sculptor, Yaun Xikum, said the greatness of both Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Mao Zedong compelled him to make these sculptures. He said it was the best commemoration of the 148th anniversary of the birth of Quaid-i-Azam on December 25 and the 131st anniversary of the birth of Mao Zedong.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to PM Tariq Fatemi, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, Pakistan Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.