The delegation of Renmin University of China (RUC), led by Zhang Donggang, Chair of the University Council, visited France and Portugal from May 1 to 8, to celebrate significant diplomatic anniversaries: the 60th anniversary of China-France relations, the 45th anniversary of China-Portugal relations, the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and the 25th anniversary of Macau's return to China.

During the visit, Zhang Donggang attended the inauguration of the China-France Center for Cultural Exchange and Cooperation, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on educational and research cooperation with the University of Macau and the University of Coimbra, and met with key officials including Qu Xing, UNESCO Deputy Director-General, Yang Xinyu, permanent representative of China to UNESCO, and Zhao Bentang, Chinese ambassador Portugal.

RUC, Sorbonne University, KEDGE Business School, and Paul Valéry University of Montpellier jointly established the China-France Center for Cultural Exchange and Cooperation in Paris on May 7. Zhang Donggang, Beatrice Perez, Vice President of Sorbonne University, Anne Fraisse, President of Paul Valéry University, and Alexandre de Navailles, General Manager of KEDGE Business School attended the ceremony. Zhang Donggang emphasized the center’s role in enhancing cultural exchange and addressing global challenges through strategic collaboration. He envisioned the center as a leader in fostering mutual understanding between Chinese and French civilizations, contributing to the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

The RUC delegation also held productive discussions with representatives from Sorbonne University, KEDGE Business School, and Paul Valéry University on the future development of the China-France Institute. They reached a consensus on fostering world-class talent and conducting forward-looking research on global issues.