Karachi University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ajmal Khan Tuesday said that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was the major reason behind increasing interest in Chinese language and culture. “The demand of people having expertise in Chinese language is increasing day by day and they are being offered high salary packages. China has emerged as an economic giant and has made significant progress in the field of science and technology. In this regard, it has become pertinent to be aware of Chinese language and culture, he said while inaugurating computer language labs and a mini auditorium at the KU’s Confucius Institute. The Lab was built with the collaboration of Confucius Institute, while the auditorium had been built in collaboration of the Chinese Consulate in Karachi. “I am pleased to see the progress of the institute, especially increasing enrolment therein. I am hopeful that these labs will also further this process. The KU has extended much needed support to CI and it will be continued”, Dr Khan added. Confucius Institute Chinese Director Prof Li Yang thanked the vice chancellor and Pakistani Director Prof Dr Nasiruddin Khan for their unwavering support in this regard. “I thank KU administration due to which a learning atmosphere has become possible,” he added. In his remarks, Dr Nasiruddin said that the institute was playing a pivotal role in promotion of Chinese language and culture. “China has emerged as a global power due to which promotion of Chinese language and culture has become a dire need, he said, adding that the purpose of CI was to promote Chinese language and culture among Pakistani students. Published in Daily Times, July 4th 2018.