ISLAMABAD, Friday, April 25, 2025(WNP): The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and the Centre for Law and Security (CLAS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote collaborative research, academic exchange, and policy dialogue.

The signing ceremony was held at The Millennium Universal College (TMUC), Islamabad, marking a significant step toward enhancing cooperation between think tanks and academic institutions in Pakistan.

The MoU was formally inked by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI, and Ambassador Sardar Masood Khan, President TMUC and CLAS. The ceremony was attended by senior officials, researchers, and students from both institutions, highlighting the inclusive spirit of the collaboration.

From ISSI, the event was attended by Malik Qasim Mustafa, Director of the Arms Control and Disarmament Centre (ACDC), along with research staff. Representing CLAS were Dr. Faisal Mushtaq (TI), CEO and Founder of TMUC and CLAS; Rehman Azhar, Executive Director CLAS; as well as members of the CLAS research team, faculty, and students.

In his remarks, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between academia and the policy community. “We aim to make this MoU a living document through practical cooperation,” he stated, underscoring plans for joint research, co-hosted events, and youth engagement. He invited TMUC students to apply for internships at ISSI and encouraged faculty to contribute to the institute’s academic journal.

Ambassador Sardar Masood Khan lauded the initiative, describing it as a timely and strategic move to empower the next generation of scholars and practitioners. “The sky is the limit,” he declared, urging students to seize the opportunities created by the partnership to shape their future through informed engagement and collaborative innovation.

Echoing similar sentiments, Dr. Faisal Mushtaq praised both institutions for their vision and dedication to fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and academic excellence. He expressed hope that the partnership would lead to vibrant exchanges of ideas on critical national and global challenges.

Earlier, Mr. Rehman Azhar introduced CLAS, which was established five years ago, and outlined its focus areas including the blue economy, lawfare, climate and digital security, and health and food security. He noted that the MoU reflects a broader commitment to integrating students into real-world policy discourse and strengthening ties between the public and private sectors.

The MoU envisions a series of joint initiatives such as collaborative research projects, student and faculty exchanges, policy roundtables, and co-authored publications. The partnership is expected to enrich both institutions while contributing meaningfully to Pakistan’s strategic, legal, and policy landscape.