KARACHI: Department of International Relations Karachi University in collaboration with Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V., Regional Programme Southwest Asia organised two-day international conference titled ‘South Asia and Regional Connectivity in 21st Century’ at local hotel.

Conference emphasised importance of regional connectivity in South Asia, particularly Pakistan and highlighted role of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V in facilitating it.

Regional representative Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V., Regional Programme Southwest Asia Dr Ellinor Zeino briefly introduced Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V., German Political Foundation mandated by German Parliament and funded by German government.

She highlighted Germany’s revised foreign policy, emphasising importance of South Asia and Indo-Pacific region in today’s evolving global order. Stressing Pakistan’s need for greater visibility in global forums and Europe, she advocated for events like conferences, hybrid workshops and seminars to amplify Pakistan’s voice.

Meanwhile, guest of honour Consul and Deputy Head of Mission of German Consulate General in Karachi Andreas Wegner highlighted importance of automated language tools like AI for negotiation, remote sensing for verification and quantum computing for interpreting or detecting communication.

He discussed early stages of utilizing these technologies and challenges and opportunities presented by digital platforms in diplomacy.

KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi said that there are three nuclear powers in South Asian region. He said South Asian region needs resolution of border disputes for economic growth and prosperity. He said that in order to tap potential of South Asian region there is need for peace, stability and collaboration.

Keynote speaker was renowned author and foreign policy expert Ahmed Rashid. He emphasised need for energy collaboration among South Asian countries to foster peace while urging private sector engagement in Pakistan.

During comprehensive discourse in working session, Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences of University of Lahore, Professor Dr Rabia Akhtar emphasised imperative shift from geopolitics to geo-economics in South Asia and significance of regional connectivity in 21st century.

Earlier, KU Chairman of Department Dr Naeem Ahmed and KU Dean of Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Professor Dr Shaista Tabassum addressed conference.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 22 2023

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