ISLAMABAD, March 18: Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi was on Monday conferred with a honourary degree of doctor of philosophy (PhD) by the National University of Sciences and Technology (Nust).

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf, who is also the chancellor of the university, awarded the degree to the visiting dignitary. The degree has been conferred on the Egyptian leader in recognition of his eminence in the field of science and technology, inspiring leadership and intellectual excellence.

Speaking at the occasion, the prime minister said Egypt’s support and solidarity with the people and government of Pakistan had always been warm and forthcoming. He added that the two countries had remained intimate to each other both in times of peace and conflict.

“As regards the educational front,” he added, “We have a good tradition of exchanging our talented students. Al-Azhar University has played a pivotal role in this regard. We also look forward to opening up new vistas of cooperation in various fields, including agriculture, health and higher education.”

In his degree acceptance speech, President Morsi thanked the government and the people of Pakistan for their continued support to his country.