Representatives from the Institute of Archaeology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), and the University of the Punjab recently held a symposium on Indus Civilization archaeological cooperation. The discussion centered on three core priorities: scientific and technological archaeological collaboration, establishing a joint research center, and cultivating academic talent between the two institutions. According to Mei Zhongtang, Party Secretary of the Institute of Archaeology, the Indus Civilization has long remained a key research focus for CASS. He further explained that this partnership aims to deepen research on the Harappan Civilization, while also exploring China-Pakistan cultural exchanges that took place during the early Buddhist period. Ultimately, both institutions hope to foster substantive and sustainable academic dialogue between their archaeological communities.
Plans for a Joint Research Center
Shi Jinsong, Deputy Director of the Institute of Archaeology, proposed establishing the China-Pakistan Joint Archaeological Research Center at the University of Punjab. In response, Vice Chancellor Muhammad Ali pledged the university’s full support toward the center’s development. This commitment includes:
- Construction land and dedicated office premises
- Supporting facilities and logistical services
- Streamlined administrative procedures
- On-site security guarantees
A Partnership Rooted in Fieldwork Since 2018
This bilateral partnership actually dates back to 2018, reflecting years of sustained collaboration. Since then, the Indus Civilization Archaeology Team, led by Tong Tao, has conducted successive surveys across various sites in Pakistan. Notably, the team initiated formal excavations at the Pariwali Site in 2025, making this one of China’s rare long-term archaeological missions actively conducting fieldwork in South Asia. Moving forward, both sides plan to leverage their respective strengths in resource sharing, talent development, and academic exchanges. Through these combined efforts, they aim to substantially deepen cooperation under this evolving archaeological project.
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