A high-level delegation from Zhejiang University visited the University of Agriculture Faisalabad on Saturday.

FAISALABAD May 23: A high-level delegation from Zhejiang University visited the University of Agriculture Faisalabad on Saturday to discuss academic collaboration, joint research initiatives and the establishment of the Sino-Pakistan International Joint Laboratory on Crop Health. The delegation comprised Prof Dr Zhou Wenwu, Prof Dr Imran Haider Shamsi and Mr Yang Liang. The guests were accompanied by Dr Muhammad Abu Bakar Siddique of the Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture. The delegation called on UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali and discussed matters relating to previous memorandums of understanding signed between the two institutions. Both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation in the fields of crop health, agricultural innovation, research commercialization and faculty exchange programmes. The meeting also agreed to set up Plant Health Lab at the UAF with the collaboration of China in which different Departments including Entomology, Agronomy, Soil Sciences, Plant Breeding and Genetics and others would work jointly to address the issues. During the meeting, various proposals were reviewed for promoting joint scientific research and establishing advanced laboratories to address emerging agricultural challenges. The participants also exchanged views on enhancing international linkages and creating opportunities for students and researchers. Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali briefed the delegation about ongoing research projects, academic facilities and technological advancements and Confucius Institute progress being undertaken at the university. They also inaugurated working office for future collaboration at Entomology Department. Dean Agriculture Dr Ghulam Murtaza, Chairman Entomology Dr Waseem Akram, Registrar Dr Asif Kamran, Chairman Agronomy Prof Dr Nadeem Akbar, Dean Confucius Institute Dr Saddam Hussain, Dr Amir Shakeel, Dr Humaira Razzaq, Dr Dildar Googi, Dr Zia, Dr Bilal Saeed, and others attended. Later, the delegation visited the Exhibition Centre, laboratories of the Department of Entomology, the Centre of Advanced Studies and the Confucius Institute at the university.