The University of Sargodha (UoS) has proposed a structured annual activity plan to strengthen collaboration within the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Think Tank Network, saying that “regular thematic interactions would enhance knowledge-sharing and deepen policy engagement among member institutions,” according to a statement issued by the university on Monday.

The proposals were shared at the Ninth CAREC Think Tank Development Forum, held in Urumqi under the theme “Accelerating the Transformative Effect of Green Initiatives Through Innovative Financing Mechanisms in the CAREC Region.” The forum brought together regional scholars, development experts and policymakers to explore new pathways for cooperation. UoS was represented by its Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, as part of Pakistan’s delegation, Gwadar Pro reported.

UoS recommended the introduction of a structured annual activity calendar featuring quarterly virtual or hybrid thematic dialogues on climate resilience, green financing, food security, digital transformation and regional connectivity. These regular exchanges, the university said, would “revitalize CTTN and create more meaningful avenues for sustained cooperation.”

Prof. Abbas also stressed the need for specialized working groups within the network, noting that clusters focused on the green economy, trade and transport, digital innovation and human capital development would promote steady collaboration and targeted research. “Focused research groups are essential for responding to the region’s most pressing challenges,” he remarked.

He added that the network should prioritize producing joint policy briefs and rapid analytical updates on emerging regional issues to “increase the visibility, relevance and impact of the network’s collective work.”

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