09/06/2026
COMSATS University Islamabad Celebrates 75 Years of Pak-China Relations with Distinguished Seminar on "Development as Transformation: Learning from China"
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN β June 9, 2026: To commemorate the historic milestone of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, the China Study Centre (CSC) at COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) hosted a high-profile seminar today titled βDevelopment as Transformation: Learning from Chinaβ. The grand event took place at the S.M. Junaid Zaidi Central Library, bringing together eminent global diplomats, leadership, academia, and students to celebrate the timeless, iron-clad brotherhood between the two nations.
The seminar featured Mr. Khalid Malik, former United Nations Resident Coordinator in China and former Director of the UN Human Development Office, as the keynote speaker. The prestigious ceremony was graced by Mr. Chen Peng, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the Peopleβs Republic of China, as the Chief Guest.
The proceedings formally commenced with the playing of the national anthems of Pakistan and China, symbolizing a 75-year journey of mutual trust that has consistently been described as "higher than the mountains, deeper than the oceans, and sweeter than honey."
In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar (T.I.), Rector of COMSATS University Islamabad, extended his profound gratitude to the international dignitaries. He emphasized that understanding Chinaβs monumental economic evolution is pivotal for regional progress and bilateral cooperation under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He highlighted that today's event serves as a flagship milestone in the university's year-long celebrations honoring this legendary bilateral friendship.
Adding unique depth to the historic event, CUIβs legendary Founding Rector, Dr. S. M. Junaid Zaidi (H.I., S.I.), also addressed the gathering. Dr. Zaidi reflected on the foundational vision of global connectivity that built the university and reiterated the critical role academic centers play in anchoring international partnerships and bridging cultural ties between the youth of both nations.
Addressing the audience, Chief Guest Mr. Chen Peng highly appreciated the efforts of the China Study Centre and expressed his admiration for the strong academic bond shared between COMSATS and top-tier Chinese institutions. He reiterated the Chinese Embassy's unwavering commitment to fostering deep cultural empathy and robust intellectual exchanges as the cornerstone of shared prosperity.
During his riveting keynote address, Mr. Khalid Malik provided an in-depth analysis of Chinaβs transformative development paradigm. Drawing from his extensive experience with the United Nations and his historic tenure in Beijing, Mr. Malik explained how China successfully redefined institutional frameworks to lift hundreds of millions out of poverty. He argued that true development is not merely a reflection of GDP growth, but a holistic transformation of human capability and societal governance structures.
The lecture was followed by an interactive and lively Question and Answer session, where faculty members and vibrant student participants engaged with the guest speaker on topics ranging from economic sustainability to technological integration.
The memorable event concluded with a commemorative group photograph in front of the S.M. Junaid Zaidi Central Library, followed by a networking Hi-Tea for the participants and distinguished guests.