Book explores new city's long history

Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is one of the world's youngest capital cities. Construction began in 1960, and the city was officially named the country's capital in 1967.

Although relatively new, the area has a long history. It was once home to one of the earliest human settlements in Asia and was also associated with the Aryan settlements of the early Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1300 BC). It is said that Xuanzang, the renowned Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the seventh century, passed through the ancient kingdom of Takshashila, near present-day Islamabad, and stayed there for two years to teach Buddhism.

Today, the city continues to explore its connections with China. A new book, Islamabad: The Biography, published by China International Communications Group, was launched at the Embassy of Pakistan in China on Sept 9.

Pakistani Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi said his entire life has been closely tied to Islamabad. From this city, he set out to represent his country around the world, and it was also here that he received leaders from other countries. Beyond its role as a political center, he said, Islamabad is a city shaped by everyday life, with communities, markets, universities, and cafes woven into its urban landscape.

The book introduces Islamabad's history, culture and natural environment while also covering the broader context of contemporary China-Pakistan relations, as this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the countries.

Yu Yunquan, deputy director of China International Communications Group, said he hopes readers will discover Islamabad's unique appeal as a city where tradition meets modernity and diverse cultures come together. He also hopes they will appreciate the enduring and heartwarming story of China-Pakistan friendship, a partnership rooted in the ancient Silk Road and carried forward through Belt and Road cooperation in the new era.