The 19th International Pure Mathematics Conference (IPMC) 2018 jointly organised by the Islamia University of Bahawalpur and Higher Education Commission (HEC) began in Islamabad on Friday. Other partner organisations included Pakistan Mathematical Society, Advanced Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Algebra Forum. The theme of this three day conference is Algebra, Geometry and Analysis and is being participated by 150 delegates including 60 speakers and keynote speakers from Pakistan and abroad. The IPMC has become the only forum in Pakistan bringing renowned and eminent mathematicians from around the world on one platform providing unique opportunity for researchers and scholars to share their latest ideas in this field. Acknowledging the importance of the discipline, the chief guest HEC Executive Director Professor Dr Arshad Ali said that Mathematics plays a vital role in the development of science and technology around the world and its innovations are benefiting people. He asked academia to focus on nurturing social values among students besides imparting education in their particular fields. Pakistan being one of the important countries in global affairs cannot compromise on latest advancement in science and technology, and Mathematics being the backbone of science, Pakistan cannot afford to lag behind in this field. “Our scholars and researchers in Mathematics should remain in touch with international mathematicians; our universities can facilitate such interactions by holding seminars, workshops, conferences and promoting exchange programmes,” Professor Dr Arshad Ali said. He praised the Conference Convener Professor Dr Qaiser Mushtaq and his team for sustained efforts and creating the forum of IPMC in generating a true mathematical culture. He assured his full support in organising such events on large scale. Earlier, Islamia University Vice Chancellor & Pakistan Mathematical Society President Professor Dr Qaiser Mushtaq in his welcome address briefed the participants about historical background, contribution and significance of thematic mathematical conference series being held since 2000. He thanked HEC, Preston University Chancellor Professor Dr Abdul Basit and participating organisations for their support in making the event a great success. After the inaugural session, technical sessions were held in which experts highlighted various areas of Mathematics. Published in Daily Times, August 18th 2018.