Punjab Post Daily Online Newspaper & Print Media
Amritsar, Sept. 30 (Punjab Post Bureau) -A team from US Embassy comprising Ms Catherine 
Fischer, North India Public Diplomacy Officer, Robin Bansal Cultural Affairs Specialist, Thomas Santoro, Political Officer of the embassy and Ms Kavleen Chatwal Economic and Political Specialist visited Guru Nanak Dev University.
US officials were welcomed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Jaspal Singh Sandhu along with other senior officials of the University. Prof. Sandhu said “We were delighted to welcome Ms Catherine Fischer and their colleagues to the University and to the city of Amritsar. This was her first visit to the University, and our staff and students were delighted to have the opportunity to hear first-hand from such distinguished personalities. There is clearly a very significant opinion across the institution to develop closer links with the USA in both teaching and research.”
Thomas Santoro, Political Officer of the embassy said: “I am impressed by the world-class breakthroughs in science and technology being made by the Guru Nanak Dev University. Most Americans will be very interested in these innovations, so we need to spread the word about the great work being done at GNDU. There is a feeling of vibrancy about the University, and the city of Amritsar, that I have picked up during my visit”
Prof SS Behl said Guru Nanak Dev University will Sign MoUs with the Government of the USA in the field of higher education and research. These MoUs will cover the scope of interaction among members of faculty relating to joint research projects, visits for such purposes and when necessary, joint applications for research funding from external funding agencies, the official statement said. It was also agreed that officials from both sides will hold further discussions to develop the early draft framework of USA-India education partnership
Dr. Preet Mohinder Singh Bedi, Coordinator University-Industry linkage Programme said today is a milestone for us, as we host US officials on our Campus for a significant global agenda in Higher education. Bilateral relations between the USA and India are of great significance for the continuous growth of both countries.
Dr. Bedi further added that after the roundtable meeting, Vice-Chancellor outlined a number of opportunities for the development of stronger bilateral relations between India and the USA, particularly in the areas of higher education and research. The University plans for hold a minimum of two International Forums each year, thus providing an opportunity for staff and students to gain insights into the component parts of the University’s international strategy. It is hoped that guests such as the US High Commissioner will add valuable external perspectives to future International Forums. Both Sides agreed that strategic collaborations covering all areas and is marked by deep trust, mutual respect and a close understanding of each other’s position. Both parties reaffirmed that being multicultural, multilingual and multi-religious societies, India and USA bring civilization wisdom to address modern-day challenges. Together, they contribute to creating a more interconnected and diverse world.
