Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani: A Glorious Chapter in Journalism, Banking and Pakistan-China Friendship

By: Arshad khan

October 31, 2025, was a deeply sorrowful day for Daily Al-Jamiat Sarhad, Peshawar, the journalistic community, the banking sector and all those associated with Pakistan-China friendship. On this day, renowned journalist, banker, distinguished writer, social figure and sincere ambassador of Pakistan-China friendship, Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani, passed away. Today, on the occasion of his first death anniversary, his personality, services and cherished memories are being recalled with renewed respect and affection.

Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani was not merely a journalist or a banker; he was a multifaceted personality who made valuable contributions to various fields through his abilities, experience and sincerity. His personality reflected a love for knowledge and literature, journalistic insight, professional integrity and a strong commitment to social service.

He was the son of the late Syed Muhammad Hassan Gilani, founder of Daily Al-Jamiat Sarhad. This newspaper represents the journalistic tradition and dedication of his family. Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani carried this legacy forward and fulfilled his responsibilities as its Chief Editor. His long association with journalism demonstrated that he regarded journalism not merely as a profession or means of livelihood, but as a platform for promoting social awareness, public understanding and positive change.

For him, journalism was not limited to the publication of news. He considered it an important means of guiding society, highlighting public issues and conveying the concerns of ordinary people to the relevant authorities. His professional integrity and intellectual insight earned him a distinct place of respect within journalistic circles.

Alongside journalism, Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani also rendered valuable services in the banking sector. His professional experience in this field reflected his practical abilities and administrative understanding. Despite his involvement in different professional fields, he always gave importance to courtesy, sincerity and maintaining positive social relationships.

One of the most significant aspects of his personality was his contribution to promoting Pakistan-China friendship. As General Secretary of the Pakistan China Friendship Association, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he played an important role in strengthening friendly relations, promoting people-to-people contacts and encouraging mutual cooperation between the two countries. For him, Pakistan-China friendship was not merely a matter of diplomatic relations; it represented a strong bond built on public goodwill, mutual trust, cultural harmony and a shared future.

Relations between Pakistan and China span several decades. Alongside government institutions, writers, journalists, intellectuals and social figures have also played an important role in strengthening this friendship. Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani belonged to those dedicated individuals who considered promoting this relationship at the public level an important responsibility.

His family also has a distinguished identity in journalism and social services. His late brother, Syed Ahmed Nawaz Gilani (PID), and his brother, Syed Shah Nawaz Gilani, a banker, were also associated with their respective professional fields. This family background reflects traditions in which knowledge, professional responsibility and social relationships have always been valued.

On his first death anniversary, his absence is being felt not only by his family and close friends but also by everyone who had the opportunity to work with him, meet him or benefit from his guidance. A person’s true identity is determined not merely by their position or title, but by their character, conduct and contributions to society. Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani will likewise be remembered for these qualities.
With the passage of time, individuals depart from this world, but their good deeds, sincerity and services to society continue to live on. Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani’s life represents a noteworthy chapter in journalism, banking, literature and Pakistan-China friendship. His first death anniversary is also an occasion to renew our commitment to carrying forward the journalistic and social traditions he upheld throughout his life.

May Almighty Allah grant forgiveness to the late Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani, bless him with the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and grant patience and strength to his family, relatives and all those who mourn his loss. Ameen.