Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has emphasized the need for regional countries to address their internal challenges independently, urging a move away from blame-shifting and towards mutual economic cooperation. His remarks were made at an international seminar titled “Stop Wars and Violence around the World,” organized by Punjab University’s Department of Political Science, in collaboration with the Foundation of Peace and Public Policy for Sustainable Governance.
International guests, including Rafael de la Rubia Moreno-Sierra from Spain, Antonio Carvallo from the UK, Decler Hague from Australia, Federica De Luca from Italy, and Tulsi from Nepal, along with faculty members and a large number of students, attended the seminar. The event brought together experts to discuss strategies for promoting peace and combating violence worldwide.
Prof Dr Muhammad Ali stressed the importance of peace and prosperity in the region, highlighting the potential benefits of trading with neighboring countries. “Pakistan’s economic development,” he noted, “is key to addressing both national and international issues.” He called for the utilization of Pakistan’s natural resources to drive economic growth, asserting that regional countries must take responsibility for finding solutions rather than attributing problems to external factors.
In his speech, Dr Muhammad Ali criticized the inability of some nations to openly condemn the violence in Gaza, noting a need for greater technological advancement and societal transformation to strengthen Pakistan. He also underscored the role of women’s education in societal progress, advocating for gender equality and improved educational opportunities as a pathway to peace and development.
The seminar’s speakers explored legal and humanistic approaches to ending discrimination and fostering non-violence. Emphasizing the economic advantages of peace-building, they urged universities to take an active role in promoting peace, gender equality, and social responsibility.
The event concluded with a robust question-and-answer session, where participants engaged in discussions about gender equality, underscoring the critical role of inclusive education and equitable practices in regional development.