In a major boost to Pakistan-China academic and technological ties, two prominent Pakistani universities—National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and the University of Sargodha (UoS)—hosted high-level Chinese delegations this week. The engagements focused on advancing green innovation, clean energy, and vocational training under the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), according to Gwadar Pro.
At NUST, the “NUST–SIEF Green and Low Carbon Summit” was jointly organized by NUST, COMSTECH, and the Sino-International Entrepreneurs Federation (SIEF), China. The event brought together a diverse group of Chinese and Pakistani researchers, entrepreneurs, and policy experts committed to promoting a sustainable and resilient future.
In his opening address, Dr. Rizwan Riaz, Pro-Rector for Research, Innovation & Commercialization (RIC) at NUST, highlighted the university’s dynamic research ecosystem and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral collaboration in green innovation, clean technologies, and low-carbon development.
The summit featured keynote speeches from prominent Chinese academics. Professor Dr. Huanzheng Du spoke on green technologies as a “Catalyst for Economic Growth,” while Academician Xiong Jian shared insights on “Net-Zero” carbon building technologies and future energy systems. Dr. Chen Yang discussed circular economy strategies for bridging research and industrial applications, and Dr. Jin Jianhai presented pathways for green transformation among small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
A panel discussion involving experts from both countries explored new opportunities in renewable energy and sustainable industry. The summit concluded with a tour of NUST’s National Science and Technology Park (NSTP) and School of Interdisciplinary Engineering & Sciences (SINES), where the Chinese delegation engaged with local startups and innovators in Pakistan’s clean tech ecosystem.
Meanwhile, a separate three-member Chinese delegation, led by Ms. Hong Yan Niu, Director of the Belt and Road Special Committee, visited the University of Sargodha to discuss joint ventures in academic research, youth vocational training, and sustainable development. The delegation was welcomed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas and held productive talks with senior faculty, including Prof. Dr. Ijaz Asghar and Prof. Dr. Tahir Mumtaz Awan.
The discussions focused on launching collaborative research and development (R&D) programs, establishing technology hubs, and expanding vocational training to empower youth. The Chinese delegates expressed strong appreciation for UoS’s academic initiatives and signaled deep interest in cultivating long-term strategic partnerships.
