Students capable of consolidating Pak-China ties: Zhao Shiren

By Our Correspondent
February 22, 2025
Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren addresses the annual dinner hosted by the Department of International Relations at Government College University (GCU) Lahore on February 21, 2025. — Screengrab via Facebook@gcuniversitylhr1
Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren addresses the annual dinner hosted by the Department of International Relations at Government College University (GCU) Lahore on February 21, 2025. — Screengrab via Facebook@gcuniversitylhr1 

LAHORE:The Consul Generals from several countries and other distinguished guests attended the annual dinner hosted by the Department of International Relations at Government College University (GCU) Lahore on Friday.

Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren on this occasion encouraged students to uphold honesty, integrity, and excellence, emphasising their role in carrying forward the institution’s legacy and strengthening China-Pakistan relations. The Consul Generals from various countries including Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren, Turkish Consul General Durmus Bastug, Iranian Consul General Mehran Mohdfar, and Dr Asghar Masoodi, Director General of Khana-e-Farhang Islamic Republic of Iran in Lahore were the guests of honour on this occasion. GCU’s Prof Emeritus Dr Iqbal Shahid, Dr Ahmad Raza Khan, In-Charge of the International Relations Department, Chief Librarian M Naeem and Controller of Examinations M Shahzad were also present on this occasion.

Turkish Consul General Durmus Bastug highlighted the growing cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan in the fields of education, technical training, and vocational sectors. He mentioned ongoing initiatives for faculty and student exchange programmes and collaborative research projects between the two nations.

Iranian Consul General Mehran Mohdfar emphasised the importance of educational and cultural collaboration in enhancing diplomatic ties between Iran and Pakistan, fostering stronger international relations. International Relations Department Dr Ahmad Raza Khan stated that partnerships with various consulates would open new educational opportunities for students and pave the way for future bilateral cooperation.

The students delivered speeches in Chinese, Turkish, and Persian, focusing on strengthening international relations, promoting cultural harmony, and fostering friendship among nations. A moment of silence was observed to honour the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.