Pakistani Ambassador Khalil Hashmi Visits Tianjin University to Strengthen Educational and Innovation Ties under CPEC

On March 18, 2025, Pakistani Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi led a delegation to Tianjin University (TJU), accompanied by Luan Jianzhang, Director of Tianjin Municipal Foreign Affairs Office. The visit aimed to deepen China-Pakistan educational collaboration and advance scientific research and cultural exchanges under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). TJU President Chai Liyuan and Vice President Ming Dong warmly welcomed the delegation, unveiling a new blueprint for strengthened higher education cooperation between the two nations.

During the meeting, President Chai highlighted TJU’s achievements in disciplinary development, internationalization, and participation in BRI flagship projects. He emphasized the university’s commitment to open education and global partnerships, particularly with leading Pakistani universities and research institutions. “We aim to deepen collaboration in talent cultivation and scientific innovation, writing a new chapter in China-Pakistan educational cooperation,” Chai stated.

Ambassador Hashmi praised TJU’s academic excellence and its innovation-driven environment, describing the university as a "hub for high-quality research and entrepreneurship." He highlighted the 254 Pakistani students currently studying at TJU, calling them "ambassadors of friendship" who strengthen bilateral ties. The ambassador advocated for expanded collaboration in faculty exchanges, joint research, and technological innovation, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He expressed hope that TJU’s expertise would contribute to the second phase of CPEC, which prioritizes industrialization, green energy, and socio-economic development.

As part of his visit, Ambassador Hashmi delivered a keynote speech titled "Pakistan-China Relations: Deepening Ties, Exploring New Frontiers, and Charting a Shared Future" at Global Tianjin Lecture Hall. Reflecting on 74 years of diplomatic relations, he lauded the two nations’ "all-weather partnership" built on mutual trust and shared vision. Hashmi encouraged students to embrace cross-disciplinary innovation and cultural understanding, emphasizing the critical role of youth in advancing CPEC and BRI goals. The ambassador also engaged in a lively Q&A session with attendees, addressing topics such as sustainable development, technology, and educational synergies.

TJU’s partnership with Pakistan is rooted in longstanding ties. In 2018, Tianjin’s universities collaborated with Punjab Province to establish the Punjab Tianjin University of Technology, which has since trained over 290 students in applied engineering. This model is now expanding under the framework of CPEC. Additionally, TJU’s Pakistani Research Center and joint programs with institutions like the University of Punjab exemplify efforts to cultivate Urdu-speaking, culturally fluent professionals critical for BRI projects.

Ambassador Hashmi’s visit underscores the pivotal role of education in fostering China-Pakistan relations. As CPEC enters its next phase, institutions like TJU are poised to drive innovation and people-to-people connectivity, ensuring the enduring strength of the "Iron Brotherhood" between the two nations.

By Eva Yin