AS the People’s Republic of China celebrates its National Day on 1 October 2026, it is an appropriate moment to reflect not only on the country’s extraordinary economic rise but also on one of the principal foundations of its success: the pursuit of ethnic unity through development, inclusion and shared prosperity. This theme was underscored by Ambassador Jiang Zaidong during a reception hosted by the Chinese community in Pakistan on 22 September. His remarks addressed an issue of profound relevance to both China and Pakistan, two nations characterized by considerable ethnic, linguistic and cultural diversity. The Ambassador’s central message was clear: national unity is strengthened when all communities participate in and benefit from development.

China’s experience suggests that ethnic harmony is not merely a political aspiration but a developmental imperative. By combining respect for cultural diversity with a shared national identity, China has sought to ensure that all ethnic groups become stakeholders in national progress. Central to this approach is the conviction that social cohesion is best reinforced through development. Investments in education, infrastructure, healthcare, employment and poverty alleviation have strengthened both livelihoods and a sense of belonging. This philosophy echoes the wisdom of renowned Chinese sociologist Fei Xiaotong, who observed: “Appreciate your own beauty, appreciate the beauty of others and when beauty is shared by all, harmony prevails under heaven.” Though articulated in a cultural context, the principle captures the essence of modern nation-building: unity flourishes when........

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