ISLAMABAD: For new research opportunities focusing on the Himalayan, Hindu Kush, and Karakorum mountain ranges, China-Pakistan joint research centre (CPJRC) on earth sciences is being established at Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU).

The ground-breaking ceremony of the CPJRC on Earth Sciences along with the inaugural ceremony of the International Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Risk was held at QAU.

The centre will offer research opportunities focusing on the Himalayan, Hindu Kush, and Karakorum mountain ranges. It aims to conduct research and provide solutions for the sustainable development of rural economies, societies, environments, and food security.

Caretaker Federal Minister for Food Security and Research Dr Kausar Abdullah Malik highlighted that the collaboration between Pakistan and China could revolutionise research in the field of earth sciences. He emphasised that the establishment of the research centre would create opportunities for Pakistani students and scientists.

President, the Pakistan Academy of Sciences Prof. Khalid M. Khan said that the China-Pakistan Joint Research Centre (CPJRC) would help expand the frontiers of knowledge in the field of earth sciences by researching and would support the physical security to CPEC connectivity by developing principles, procedures and technologies to mitigate the effect of natural hazards.

Ambassador of China to Pakistan Jiang Zeiddong spoke at the event and expressed that the establishment of the CPJRC on Earth Sciences is a continuation of China-Pakistan cooperation. He emphasized that the establishment of research centre will play a role in further strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries. Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Zhang Yaping commended the efforts of governmental departments, universities, and research institutions in both Pakistan and China for their generous and sustainable support.

Chairman, Higher Education Commission Dr Mukhtar Ahmad praised the Chinese government’s initiative for strengthening the higher education.

Earlier, Prof. CUI Peng, Director General of CPJRC, briefed the audience about the activities of the CPJRC.

QAU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar also spoke on the occasion

Published in Dawn, October 26th, 2023