Special Academic Lecture delivered by Professor Dr. Mahboob Hussain, Senior Vice Chairman, Board of Experts, PRCCSF and Chairman, Department of History and Pakistan Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore on “Global Civilization Initiative: How Diversity Creates Unity” at Lanzhou University, Yuzhong Campus, Gansu Province, China

On 30th October 2023, Professor Dr. Mahboob Hussain, Senior Vice Chairman, Board of Experts, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad and Chairman, Department of History and Pakistan Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore gave a special academic lecture on "Global Civilization Initiative: How Diversity Creates Unity" at Lanzhou University's Yuzhong Campus in Gansu Province, China.
The lecture was divided into two parts. In the first part, Dr. Hussain discussed the concept of the "Global Civilization Initiative" proposed by President Xi Jinping in March 2023. He emphasized the importance of tolerance and mutual learning in promoting the progress of human civilization and respecting cultural diversity and historical heritage.
The second part of the lecture focused on the historical overview of Pakistan, its modern state construction, and the main challenges it faces. Dr. Hussain highlighted the rich history of the region, with the Indus River Basin being the birthplace of early human civilizations such as Harappa and Mohenjodaro. He also discussed the challenges faced by Pakistan in its nation-building process, including the struggle to balance religion and national identity and the issue of family politics in its democracy.
Dr. Hussain also delved into the challenges currently faced by Pakistani society, such as terrorism, political instability, and a water crisis. He also discussed the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between China and Pakistan, which has been built on comprehensive cooperation in various areas since diplomatic relations were established in 1951.
In conclusion, Dr. Hussain expressed his belief that with the joint efforts of China and Pakistan, the two countries will continue to move forward and achieve great success amidst the rapidly changing global landscape.
The lecture was attended by hundreds of undergraduate and graduate students and sparked lively interactions. It provided a deeper understanding of neighboring Pakistan and its relationship with China.