Lahore, The University of the Punjab’s Institute of Compilation and Translation played a significant role in fostering cultural connections between Pakistan and Italy during the National Day ceremony held in Islamabad. The event, hosted on June 2, 2024, at the Serena Hotel, featured participation from esteemed academics and diplomats, highlighting the growing academic and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

According to University of the Punjab, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Nair Amir, Director of the Institute of Compilation and Translation, attended the ceremony at the invitation of the Italian Embassy. During the event, Prof. Amir presented Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, Ms. Marilina Armellin, with his passport, symbolizing the deep cultural and educational bonds being nurtured through literature. The books “Kishor Italy Ki Bahar” and “An Italian Odyssey,” published by the Institute, were noted for their role in enhancing the bilateral relations.

The ceremony also featured a presentation of a travelogue by Kar Ashraf to Mahmood Abdul Majeed, with contributions from Dr. Roberto Totoli, Rector of Naples University, and Andreas Ferrars, former Italian ambassador to Pakistan. The dialogue and shared projects underscore the mutual interest in promoting understanding through education and literature, particularly in the study of Urdu in Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, and Naples.

This cultural exchange initiative illustrates the potential of academic contributions to international diplomacy and understanding, showcasing the University of Punjab’s commitment to global educational partnerships.