The first animated movie co-produced by China and Pakistan premiered in Beijing on Dec. 19 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The film, titled "Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor," is an adaptation of an ancient Pakistani myth, and revolves around a young boy's efforts to protect wild animals from illegal poaching. It will hit Chinese theaters nationwide on Dec. 25.

In the movie, the titular character Allahyar is granted the ability to speak with animals after saving a markhor, a type of wild goat that is a symbol of Pakistan and often found in the Himalayas. After deciding to accompany the markhor on her journey home, the confident and righteous Allahyar outwits various hunters and wolf packs. He also gets help from an owl and a snow leopard, building plenty of friendships along the way.

Pakistani Ambassador to China Moin ul Haque attended the premiere and spoke about the film's exploration of man's relationship to nature while emphasizing the importance of national resource conservation and wildlife protection. Likewise, he added that such cooperation in film can also "help connect our two peoples and foster a better understanding of our cultures and societies."

Haque highlighted that the friendship between China and Pakistan goes all the way back to the times of the ancient Silk Road, and has been strengthened during the past 70 years, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative. He hoped that the bilateral affection can be transferred to both younger and future generations. 

Liu Chun, general manager of China Film Co-production Corporation, said it was no easy feat getting the film to the big screen. "During the four years of movie production, we had to overcome the language and culture barriers while trying to keep it under the budget."

Liu also said that he wishes filmmakers from both countries will continue to collaborate and advance cultural exchanges. 

The film's director Uzair Zaheer Khan gave his special thanks to the co-production team in China via video link, and said that he hopes the film "is not only entertainment but also delivers a more important message of wildlife conservation." 

After the speeches, Ambassador Haque presented certificates of thanks to company representatives and people who contributed to the film's production and release.

"After watching the film, I learned that everyone should do their part to protect wild animals," said a child from the audience. "In addition, I got a glimpse of the traditional architecture, decorations, clothing and food of Pakistan, which are kind of novel to me." 

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