LPU cancels academic ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan amid Indo-Pak tensions

Jalandhar: Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab has terminated all academic agreements with Turkey and Azerbaijan in response to recent geopolitical developments involving India and Pakistan.

Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ targeting terrorist bases across the border.

The operation triggered retaliatory drone attacks by Pakistan, escalating tensions between the two nations. Amid this conflict, Turkey and Azerbaijan extended their support to Pakistan, with Turkey reportedly supplying drone bombs.

In protest, India has begun distancing itself diplomatically and economically from both countries. As part of this wider national response, LPU has become the first Indian university to sever all academic partnerships with Turkish and Azerbaijani institutions.

The university announced the termination of six academic collaborations, which include exchange programmes for students and faculty, joint research projects, dual-degree initiatives, and participation in international academic forums. Consequently, students from Turkey and Azerbaijan will no longer be eligible for admission to LPU.

University officials said the decision was taken in the national interest, aiming to send a strong message amid rising tensions in the region.