The delegation of Renmin University of China (RUC), led by Vice President Zhi Xiaoqiang, visited Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan to deepen academic partnerships with universities along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) from Dec. 11th to 18th, which included engagements with top universities, embassies, and cultural centers, emphasizing collaboration in education, research, and cultural exchange.
On December 12, the delegation met with Inom Madjidov Urishevich, President of Mirzo Ulugbek National University.
Zhi highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two universities, particularly in academic events and think tank exchanges. He proposed jointly establishing the Belt and Road and New Uzbekistan Development Strategy Cooperation Research Center as a platform for academic development, training programs, and cultural exchange.
Madjidov expressed enthusiasm for leveraging China’s high-quality education system, stating that the partnership could advance joint research, student exchanges, and high-level forums. Discussions also focused on the operational details of the proposed research center.
On December 13, the delegation visited Samarkand State University and met with Vice President Akmal Akhatov.
Zhi emphasized opportunities for cooperation in mathematics, archaeology, digital humanities, and food security governance.
Akhatov shared updates on existing collaborations and expressed interest in deepening joint initiatives, including student training, research resource sharing, and academic publication.
On December 14, the delegation visited the Chinese Embassy in Uzbekistan. The delegation was warmly received by Ambassador Yu Jun.
Zhi expressed gratitude for the embassy’s longstanding support in facilitating exchanges and collaborations between RUC and Uzbek universities. He provided an overview of the delegation’s objectives and activities during their visit to Uzbekistan.
Ambassador Yu commended the efforts of both Chinese and Uzbek institutions in fostering closer ties in education and culture. Yu expressed hope that RUC would continue expanding its partnerships in Uzbekistan and collaborate with local universities to achieve greater educational and research excellence.
On December 16, the delegation met with Li Baojie, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan.
Li highlighted the strong cultural and educational ties between the two nations and encouraged RUC to advance higher education collaboration.
Zhi shared updates on RUC’s existing partnerships with Kyrgyz universities and requested support in aligning cooperative efforts with national diplomatic strategies.
On the same day, Zhi met with Mirlan Dyldaev, Vice President of Kyrgyz National University.
Dyldaev emphasized his institution’s commitment to expanding partnerships in law, history, and economics.
Zhi highlighted the compatibility of the universities’ strengths and proposed initiatives in interdisciplinary research, resource sharing, and youth exchange programs.
On December 17, the delegation met with Abdylda Musaev, President of Bishkek State University.
Musaev provided an overview of the university’s academic offerings and collaborations with Chinese institutions.
Zhi expressed interest in extending cooperation in journalism, management, and law while exploring joint research and academic publishing opportunities.
The delegation also visited the Chinese Cultural Center in Tashkent and the China Cultural Education Center at the Kyrgyz National Library, highlighting the importance of cultural diplomacy. Meetings with overseas alumni further strengthened ties between RUC and its global community.
Representatives from RUC’s School of Business, Scientific Research Office, and International Office accompanied the delegation.
