University of Wah organized an e-workshop titled “From Corridor to Bridge: Constructing the China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future through Mutual Learning of Civilizations” on 21 May 2026, to commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. Held in hybrid mode, the event was organized by the CPEC Consortium of Universities, in collaboration with the Female Ambassador Program and the Women Development Department, Government of Punjab.
The workshop was hosted by Dr. Asma Arif, focal person of the Women Development Department, Punjab, along with Female Ambassador Ms. Maira Kashaf Raja, and attracted around 400 participants from academic institutions and professional organizations across the country.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Dr. Cao Zhihong, highlighted the evolution of Pakistan–China relations over the past 75 years, describing the partnership’s transition from diplomatic and political cooperation to economic connectivity through CPEC and, more recently, to broader strategic cooperation rooted in mutual learning between civilizations. Presenting her framework “From Corridor to Bridge,” she explained that the China–Pakistan community with a shared future is built on shared civilizations, interests, security responsibilities, and values. She emphasized the cultural significance of the Gandhara civilization, the political strength of the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, and the economic transformation of CPEC from Version 1.0 to 2.0.
Prof. Dr. Cao Zhihong further stated that initiatives such as the Global Security Initiative, Global Development Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative, and Global Governance Initiative have deepened bilateral cooperation and provided an important model for Global South countries seeking independent modernization and equitable international cooperation. She also appreciated the growing academic collaboration between University of Wah and University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, expressing interest in establishing a joint China–Pakistan Research and Study Center.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Dr. Amjad Hassan praised the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China and acknowledged the contributions of Prof. Dr. Cao Zhihong; the Women Development Department, Government of Punjab; and the university leadership for supporting gender-inclusive academic initiatives. The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening Pakistan–China cooperation, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing academic and cultural collaboration between the two countries.
