Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev visits UAF

FAISALABAD May 29: Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev has said that the educational and research ties especially between Russian universities and University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) will be further strengthened to learn from each other’s experiences. He along with Education and Cultural Attaché Alina Kolesnikov visited UAF and called on UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali. He lauded the steps being taken on the part of UAF to address the agricultural challenges and ensure the food security. He said that his visit was aimed at further improving the bilateral ties. The areas of collaboration in academia and research including students exchange programs came under discussion. The meeting also discussed the possibilities of joint degree program, establishment of cultural center and short courses of Russian language. Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali said that collaboration with international partners, including Russia, could open new avenues for joint research, faculty exchange and student mobility which ultimately will benefit both nations in the fields of research, advancement and education. He highlighted the immense potential and ongoing contributions of the university in the global academic and research landscape. He emphasized that UAF is currently managing research projects worth millions of rupees under the partnership of various countries, underscoring its commitment to agriculture, innovation and development. He said that international collaborations contribute to its academic excellence. He said that under International partnership, the university was housing Chinese Confucius Institute, the language and culture exchange center; International Seed Testing Lab; the Pak-Korea Nutrition Center (PKNS), Center for Advanced Studies and others. He highlighted the development of various high-yielding wheat, maize, cotton, mango, okra, soybean and others varieties developed by UAF scientists, contributing to national food security. He said that the establishment of language center would break down the language barrier and promote mutual understanding among the people of both countries. Alina Kolesnikov spoke about the opportunities available at Russian universities and highlighted various scholarship programs through which Pakistani students can benefit, paving the way for enhanced academic exchange and cooperation. They visited the expo center, Center for Advanced Studies and PKNC.