On 24 August 2026, Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), participated as a speaker at the “Echo: Youth in Action” – China-Pakistan Youth Forum, jointly organized by China Media Group (CMG) and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan at the HEC Auditorium, Islamabad.
The forum was held under the theme “Youth, Education and People-to-People Exchanges: Strengthening Pakistan-China Cooperation.” The event provided a platform for dialogue and exchange on the important role of youth in strengthening the friendship and people-to-people ties between Pakistan and China. The programme commenced with the screening of CMG’s documentary “Echo,” highlighting the shared experiences and growing connections between the people of the two countries.
The event was graced by Mr. Chen Peng, Cultural Counselor at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, as Guest of Honor, while Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, attended as the Chief Guest.
The session began with a welcome address by Mr. Tassawar Zaman Babar, Director Programs & PR, China Global Television Network (CGTN) Urdu, China Media Group (CMG), followed by opening remarks from Ms. Aayesha Ikram, Director General (HRD and GE), Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan.
During his address, Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram emphasized the importance of youth engagement, educational cooperation, and cultural exchanges in further strengthening Pakistan-China relations. He highlighted the role of academic collaboration, research partnerships, and people-to-people connectivity in fostering mutual understanding and contributing to the long-term development of both countries. Mr. Akram also underscored the significance of youth participation in regional initiatives, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and encouraged greater academic and cultural interaction between the younger generations of Pakistan and China.
Distinguished speakers at the forum included:
- Mr. Fareed Ahmad Nasir, Master’s-PhD Scholar in Sinology and China Studies at Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU), China, and Associate at the World Sinology Center
- Dr. Syed Hasanat Shah, Executive Director, Centre of Excellence for CPEC (PIDE)
- Ms. Yang Siyuan, National University of Modern Languages (NUML)
- Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Chairman, Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan
The programme also brought together Chinese students studying at Pakistani universities and Pakistani students studying in China. Participants shared their experiences regarding education, cultural exchange, and life in each other’s countries, contributing to a deeper understanding of Pakistan-China friendship and cooperation.
The forum was attended by government officials, diplomats, academics, researchers, students, media representatives, and policy experts. The event served as a valuable platform for dialogue and intellectual exchange, reaffirming the commitment of both countries to enhancing youth engagement, educational collaboration, and people-to-people connectivity as pillars of the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
