Pakistan and China launched the China–Pakistan Marine Information Workshop (CPMI) to strengthen bilateral cooperation in marine research, joint ocean observations, data sharing and scientific capacity building.

The workshop was inaugurated during the 6th Exchange Mechanism Conference of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Consortium of Universities at Harbin Engineering University, bringing together more than 120 representatives from over 40 universities and research institutions from both countries, Gwadar Pro reported on Tuesday.

CPMI aims to establish stronger institutional links between Pakistani and Chinese universities and research institutes, enabling researchers to conduct joint ocean observations, exchange marine data and collaborate on scientific studies.

It also seeks to build research capacity through expanded academic networks and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Held under the theme “Nurturing a Shared Future through Cooperation on High-Quality Development of Higher Education between China and Pakistan,” the conference marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The conference reviewed progress in academic exchanges, joint scientific research and human resource development under the CPEC Consortium of Universities, with discussions covering emerging fields including artificial intelligence, agriculture, mining, marine information and public health.

Chairman of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, attended the opening ceremony alongside senior Chinese officials and representatives of academic and research institutions.

Participants also launched the Annual Development Report on the Exchange Mechanism of the CPEC Consortium of Universities, documenting progress in collaborative research, talent development and technical exchanges.

Another key initiative was the launch of the High-Level Graduate Student Research Visit Programme for CPEC in Pakistan, which will provide Pakistani graduate students with opportunities to undertake research visits and joint training in China, strengthening academic mobility and practical research cooperation.

The conference featured specialised forums on marine information, artificial intelligence and future development, advanced materials and intelligent manufacturing, and China–Pakistan youth cooperation. Scholars and experts exchanged research findings and explored opportunities for joint projects, collaborative training and industry-academia partnerships.

Harbin Engineering University, which joined the CPEC Consortium in 2021, brings expertise in shipbuilding, ocean engineering and nuclear disciplines to bilateral academic cooperation.

The university has also pursued partnerships with Pakistani institutions to expand faculty exchanges, research collaboration and technical training.

Established in November 2017 through a joint initiative of the China Association of Higher Education and Pakistan’s HEC, the CPEC Consortium of Universities promotes cooperation in higher education, scientific research, human resource development and technological applications.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China