A high-level meeting took place between Prof. Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari, Vice Chancellor of Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science, and Technology (FUUAST), Pakistan, and Prof. Dr. Lenar Rinatovich Safin, Rector of Kazan Federal University, Russia, with the aim of enhancing academic collaboration and discussing the significance of Pakistan-Russia relations in the shifting global landscape.
Both academic leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening educational and research ties, particularly in areas such as student and faculty exchanges, collaborative research, and credit transfer programs between the two institutions, according to a press statement issued on Thursday.
The meeting was also attended by Dr. Muhammad Arif Khan and Dr. Faisal Javaid from FUUAST, along with Dr. Timir Khan Bulatovich and Dr. Fakhruddin from Kazan Federal University. A key topic of discussion was the 1st Pakistani-Russian International Conference, set to take place in Karachi on February 18-19, 2025. During the session, Prof. Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari extended a formal invitation to Prof. Dr. Safin to attend the event in person, highlighting its role in promoting bilateral academic and strategic cooperation.
The upcoming conference marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-Russia academic collaboration, with over 110 research papers scheduled for presentation. The event will bring together academics, researchers, policymakers, and diplomats to explore various aspects of cooperation, including regional connectivity, trade, energy, security, and economic partnerships.
A major focus of the discussion was the establishment of mechanisms for student and faculty exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and credit transfer agreements. These efforts aim to enhance academic mobility, allowing students and faculty members from both universities to participate in exchange programs, joint research projects, and international academic experiences.
Prof. Dr. Lenar Rinatovich Safin welcomed the initiative, expressing Russia’s commitment to strengthening academic cooperation with Pakistan. He noted the growing presence of Pakistani students at Kazan Federal University, which has doubled over the past year, reflecting the increasing educational and cultural ties between the two countries.
Additionally, he assured that Kazan Federal University is prepared to accommodate Pakistani researchers and students through academic exchange programs, joint research ventures, and collaborative academic projects. He also extended an official invitation to Prof. Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari to participate in the Kazan Forum in May 2025, further solidifying academic engagement and paving the way for future collaborations in education, research, and innovation.
Mirpurkhas Police Arrest Three in Crackdown on Snatching Gang
In a targeted operation, Mirpurkhas police arrested three individuals suspected of involvement in a series of snatching incidents across the city. The operation was carried out on the directives of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mirpurkhas, Shabbir Ahmed Sethar, as part of an intensified effort to curb criminal activities in the area.
According to police reports, the suspects—Abdul Rafi, Abdul Raihan, and Muhammad Bilal—were linked to an armed robbery that took place on January 30, 2025, at Muhammad Ashraf’s Easy Load shop, where they stole Rs 45,000 in cash and three mobile phones.
A police team, led by Station House Officer (SHO) of Satellite Town Police Station, Inspector Ghazi Khan Rajar, successfully apprehended the suspects and recovered a motorcycle, a pistol, and ammunition. Law enforcement officials have registered two cases against the accused: Case No. 16/2025 under Section 397, 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code and Case No. 17/2025 under Section 25 of the Sindh Arms Act for possession of illegal weapons.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining law and order in Mirpurkhas, assuring that operations against criminal elements will continue to ensure the safety of the public.
