UCP seeks stronger academic links with Turkish universities

LAHORE - The University of Central Punjab (UCP) celebrated the 103rd Republic Day of Turkiye with a special ceremony held here on Tuesday. The ceremony highlighted the historic friendship between Pakistan and Turkiye and exploring new avenues of academic cooperation between the two countries.Turkish Consul General in Lahore Mehmet Emin Shamshek, accompanied by his wife, attended the ceremony as chief guest. Dean Professor Dr Khalid Manzoor Butt, Pro-Rector Professor Dr Hammad Naveed, Group Head of Punjab Group of Colleges Khadija Amir and other distinguished guests were also present. The university campus was decorated with the national flags of Pakistan and Turkiye, while students warmly welcomed the guests with bouquets. In his welcome address, Professor Dr Khalid Manzoor Butt highlighted the historic, cultural and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Turkiye, saying that the friendship between the two countries was founded on mutual trust and shared values. He also underscored the importance of defence cooperation among Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Students presented regional dances and traditional songs reflecting Pakistani culture, which were appreciated by the chief guest. The Turkish Consul General thanked the UCP administration for celebrating Turkiye's national day with enthusiasm and warmth. In his remarks, Pro-Rector Professor Dr Hammad Naveed thanked the Consul General and his wife for attending the ceremony and presented them with commemorative shields and traditional handicrafts. Later, delegations from UCP and the Turkish Consulate discussed opportunities for joint degree programmes, student and faculty exchanges, research collaboration and enhanced academic ties. The Turkish Consul General assured his cooperation in strengthening institutional linkages between UCP and Turkish universities.