On May 5th, President Xi Jinping arrived in Paris, commencing a state visit to France aimed at elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and France to a new level.

China and France, representing Eastern and Western civilizations, have developed a unique, mutually beneficial “China-France spirit” through a series of pioneering firsts in diplomacy, aviation, and nuclear cooperation, leading to a fruitful and forward-looking relationship.

Sino-French Institute, Renmin University of China (RUC), the first domestic institution specializing in humanities and social sciences under Sino-foreign cooperation, was established in collaboration with Sorbonne University, Paul Valéry University Montpellier, and KEDGE Business Institute . Over the past 12 years, it has led in integrating international education with China’s cultural and educational policies, advancing moral and international education. The Institute  has significantly contributed to Sino-French relations, marking a notable chapter in RUC’s history.

Pioneering New Models for International Talent Training

Rooted in Suzhou’s 2,500-year cultural heritage, the Sino-French Institute at RUC is committed to developing talents who are both patriotic and globally minded. The Institute  employs a pioneering “cooperative training, multiple degrees” model with instruction in Chinese, English, and French, focusing on nurturing innovative and interdisciplinary talents for the global stage.

Since 2009, Jean-François VERGNAUD, the French representative at the Sino-French Institute in Suzhou, has been instrumental in promoting Sino-French cultural exchanges. His work led to him being awarded the Knight of the Legion of Honour from France. He highlighted the long history of valuable exchanges in humanities and social sciences between the two countries, praising RUC’s foresight and commitment to international cooperation.

Since its launch in June 2012, the Sino-French Institute at RUC has become a center for blending international and cultural insights. It utilizes resources from Beijing and Suzhou and aligns with China’s educational strategies to nurture students with a global and patriotic perspective.

The institute offers structured learning with experienced professors and organizes international study trips to enrich cultural understanding. It has expanded its programs to include Mathematics, Human Resource Management, and Communication Studies, integrating the educational strengths of China and France.

Employing a unique trilingual education model in Chinese, English, and French, the institute focuses on both general and specialized education, enhancing students’ professional skills and cultural literacy to prepare them for global engagement.

For over a decade, the Sino-French Institute has effectively developed numerous global-minded talents. Its graduates have excelled in various fields, from broadcasting China’s voice internationally at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics to pursuing advanced studies and research at top universities. Some have even started businesses in China after their studies. Sino-French alumni are making significant contributions across sectors such as governance, public service, academia, and global affairs.

“Bring In” and “Go Global”

The institute is dedicated to turn itself into a hub for global learning and cultural exchange, and cultivate young scholars to become cultural ambassadors.

The Sino-French Institute promotes cooperation between China and France, facilitating exchanges in both directions. In the past decade, around 3,000 students have studied in France, enriching their personal growth through overseas education. By utilizing a one-year study program for third-year students in France, the Institute blends domestic and international resources to create a pioneering model of study abroad education. This model emphasizes friendly interactions among Chinese and foreign youth.

Tang Ruyi, a student at the Sino-French Institute, highlights Paris as a historical hub for Chinese scholars. At the Institute, students explore communist thought and revolutionary history, sharing their experiences through vlogs and articles. Zhang Xinle, a Finance major, traces Marx’s footsteps across Europe, emphasizing the continuity of Chinese students in France. Cultural exhibitions during the Spring Festival showcase Chinese traditions, fostering exchange. Huang Ying underscores their role in promoting a positive image of China during interactions with French friends.

French students in China learn alongside Chinese peers to understand modern China better.

Léo Moncomble, a third-year undergraduate at KEDGE Business School, found his Chinese classmates’ explanations during a class on “Museums and Chinese Traditional Culture” enlightening. The encounter between the Louvre Museum’s glass pyramid in Paris and Suzhou Museum depicted cultural exchanges between China and France.

The Sino-French Institute has hosted over 1,100 students from three French institutions in the past decade. They engage in various activities, including experiencing Chinese culture and visiting companies, gaining insights into China’s development.

Building a Cultural Nexus Between China and France

The Sino-French Institute serves as a key platform for bridging Chinese and foreign cultures, prioritizing international cooperation. At its tenth meeting in 2023, the four schools discussed expanding educational collaboration. Plans included strengthening ties with Sorbonne University in language education and partnering with KEDGE Business School for development in food and wine management. Additionally, the inaugural China-Europe Civilization Forum in September 2023 emphasized cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between China and Europe.

The Sino-French Center for Civilization Exchange and Mutual Learning, a permanent part of the China-Europe Civilization Forum, will support the forum’s ongoing development. It aims to strengthen exchanges between Chinese and European civilizations, foster mutual understanding, and facilitate shared development. Serving as a significant platform for the forum’s achievements, the center promotes dialogue, academic exchanges, and cultural integration. Additionally, it will help organize and promote the forum, inviting European scholars and sharing forum outcomes for its smooth operation and growth.

Over a century ago, 2,000 Chinese students went to France, paving the way for China’s revival. Today, RUC is committed to continue China-France cooperation, fostering educational collaboration and global perspectives. Our aim is to contribute to national rejuvenation and global progress, advancing a shared future for mankind.