CHONGQING, Thursday, July 3, 2025 (WNP): Pakistan is proudly presenting five films at the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival, being held from July 3 to 7 in the Yongchuan District of Chongqing, southwest China.
Speaking at the festival’s grand opening ceremony, Minister of State for Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar hailed Pakistan’s participation as a celebration of the nation’s creative talent and cultural diversity. “These films are more than artistic expressions—they mirror the hopes, struggles, and dreams of the Pakistani people,” she said.
The Pakistani lineup includes a diverse mix of genres and themes:
- Allahyar and the 100 Flowers of God (2023) – an animated eco-adventure delivering a powerful environmental message,
- Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning (2024) – a fantasy epic inspired by rich Eastern folklore,
- The Martial Artist (2025) – a story of resilience, discipline, and cultural harmony.
In addition, two Pakistani entries are competing in the official competition section:
- Deemak (2025) – a socially charged drama tackling contemporary issues,
- Nayab (2024) – an inspiring tale of ambition and perseverance.
Minister Qamar underlined the deep-rooted and ever-growing relationship between Pakistan and China, calling it a “timeless bond” enriched by shared history and generations of trust. “Calling each other iron brothers is not just a phrase—it signifies a partnership that has stood the test of time and flourished with mutual respect,” she noted.
She also reaffirmed the collective commitment of Pakistan, China, and other SCO nations to building a shared cultural future. “Cinema provides a powerful platform to promote common values and deepen people-to-people connections across the region,” she said.
Organized by the China Film Administration and Chongqing’s municipal government, the SCO Film Festival aims to enhance cultural exchange and regional cooperation among member states. The event features 11 major activities, including screenings, panel discussions, a film technology expo, and a gala concert.
A total of 27 films from SCO countries are being showcased, with awards to be presented in 10 categories, including Best Film and Best Director.
Yongchuan, the festival’s host district, has rapidly emerged as a hub for film and television production, boasting over 100 media companies and cutting-edge infrastructure, including a 3,000-square-meter virtual production stage and a 5,000-square-meter soundstage.
