The China Study Centre at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore, recently published two books titled, “Beyond Silk Routes: The Future and Multifarious Impact of CPEC” and “Forbidden City Unravelled: Pakistanis’ Accounts of Dwelling in China and Carving out New Paths.” A book launch ceremony was held to celebrate this accomplishment, which also marked the closing of the China Study Centre project. The event was organised by Dr. Mehvish Riaz, Director of the China Study Centre at UET, Lahore and editor of the books. Professor Dr. Nasir Hayat, Vice Chancellor of UET Lahore, presided over the ceremony as the chief guest. Deans of faculties and chairpersons of various departments also graced the occasion with their worthy presence. Beyond Silk Routes highlights that through joint efforts, Pakistan and China have collaborated on mega-infrastructure projects, including highways, ports, railways, and digital infrastructure, laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and regional connectivity. In the education sector, the role played by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan as well as the China and Pakistan study centres established at different universities is noteworthy. The book, which consists of 12 chapters, encompasses topics, such as the China Study Centre, UET, Lahore as a hub of cultural promotion, digital transformation in higher education resulting from the collaboration between IIOE-HEI and UET, Lahore, the social and infrastructural contribution made by the Orange Line Metro Transit System, the nexus of CPEC, SDGs and Higher Education, trade between Pakistan and China, defence diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, Chinese as a foreign language in Pakistan, properties of Port Qasim GPC, and diverse effects and issues concerning CPEC. Forbidden City Unravelled highlights the experiences of Pakistani students and professionals during their visits to China. It draws attention to the opportunities for tourism and collaboration between China and Pakistan. The participants of the ceremony emphasized that the publication of the books and successful completion of the project serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and partnership that defines the relationship between Pakistan and China.
