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The Pakistan Institute of China Studies (PICS) and Confucius Institute jointly hosted a Distinguished Scholar Session of the China Fellowship Program here at University of Sargodha.

The event brought together more than 400 participants, including China fellowship attendees, faculty members, and researchers, to promote academic exchange and strengthen research collaboration between Pakistan and China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The session commenced with opening remarks by Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, Vice Chancellor, University of Sargodha, who warmly welcomed the distinguished speakers and participants. He highlighted the University’s commitment to fostering international academic cooperation, encouraging innovation, and promoting global research linkages.

 The Vice Chancellor appreciated PICS’s efforts in nurturing scholarly dialogue and facilitating opportunities for faculty and students to engage in meaningful academic discourse. He emphasized that such scholarly sessions reflect the University’s vision of advancing research-driven learning and enhancing Pakistan’s academic engagement with BRI countries.

The centerpiece of the event was the Distinguished Scholar Session delivered by Prof. Gan Zhang, Director, State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, and Professor at the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences.Prof. Zhang presented an insightful lecture titled “Status of Air Pollution in Asian and African Countries Along the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.”

 He discussed the environmental challenges faced by developing nations along the BRI route and stressed the need for joint scientific and policy efforts to address transboundary air pollution. Prof. Zhang emphasized the importance of collaborative research, technological innovation, and evidence-based policymaking to promote environmental sustainability and global resilience. His lecture captivated the audience and sparked thought-provoking discussion on the future of environmental cooperation among BRI countries.

An online lecture was then delivered by Dr. Chin Yee Mun, Chairperson, Centre for Social and Policy Studies, University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia, on “Malaysia–China Relations Through the Lens of Humanistic Diplomacy.” Dr. Chin discussed the evolution of Malaysia–China relations since 1974, focusing on the importance of empathy, mutual respect, and cultural diplomacy in fostering lasting international relations.

His lecture provided valuable insights into the humanistic dimensions of diplomacy and the growing role of cultural understanding in shaping regional partnerships.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Prof. Dr. Tahir Mumtaz Awan, Director, Pakistan Institute of China Studies & Host Director at the university of Sargodha, who extended his gratitude to the distinguished speakers and participants. He commended the enthusiasm of students and faculty, noting that such academic engagements reflect the University’s thriving research culture. Prof. Awan reaffirmed PICS’s commitment to advancing China–Pakistan academic cooperation, enhancing the fellowship program, and encouraging interdisciplinary research focused on sustainable development and regional cooperation. He emphasized that PICS continues to serve as a hub of intellectual exchange, promoting research excellence, cultural understanding, and academic linkages with Belt and Road countries.

Both sessions concluded on an inspiring note, leaving participants motivated by the diversity of ideas and the depth of scholarly engagement. The event reaffirmed the University of Sargodha’s mission to cultivate academic excellence, strengthen regional partnerships, and position PICS as a leading center for China–Pakistan studies. Through such initiatives, PICS remains dedicated to fostering research, dialogue, and cooperation that contribute to shared prosperity and sustainable development under the Belt and Road Initiative.