On October 8, Chongqing hosted the “Belt and Road” University Presidents Forum and the “Belt and Road” Universities and Sustainable Development Conference, organized by Chongqing University alongside the Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau.
Gathering representatives from 15 universities from both China and abroad, the conference focused on two major themes: “The Role and Responsibility of Universities in Promoting Sustainable Development Along the Belt and Road” and “Technological Innovation and New Quality Productivity: Opportunities and Challenges for Belt and Road Universities.” Participants shared their perspectives on how universities can address global challenges, advance sustainable development, and foster technological innovation, all while strengthening collaboration among higher education institutions worldwide.
In his opening remarks, Sun Jian, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Science and Technology, underscored the indispensable role universities play as drivers of technological innovation. “We must translate cutting-edge scientific breakthroughs into practical solutions to meet global sustainable development goals,” he asserted. Sun emphasized that today’s climate of open collaboration means that technological innovation resembles a “symphony,” requiring contributions from nations around the globe rather than being reliant on any single country. He noted that the conference serves as a vital platform for universities to deepen their technological partnerships and advance sustainable development initiatives.
Chulunbaatar Dankhuh, Vice President of Mongolia’s National University of Science and Technology, spoke about the significant responsibilities universities have in furthering the sustainable development of the Belt and Road Initiative. He pointed out that as hubs of research, innovation, and knowledge transfer, universities must take an active role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and inspiring change through the sharing of best practices and sustainable technologies.
Nikita Smirnov, Associate Vice President of the Far Eastern Federal University in Russia, proposed that universities should create interdisciplinary programs targeting the implementation of sustainable development goals in areas of ecology and economic stability. He emphasized the need for enhanced international cooperation and strengthening partnerships with universities and research institutions in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, while also promoting research and innovation.
Wang Shuxin, President of Chongqing University and a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, remarked, “Universities are crucial in cultivating technological talent and play a central role in fostering openness in education.” He noted Chongqing University’s long-standing commitment to international collaboration in technological innovation. In 2023, the university launched the Belt and Road University Technology Cooperation Alliance, which encompasses 15 universities from 11 countries, achieving meaningful progress in research collaboration, talent exchange, and the application of research outcomes. Wang suggested leveraging the opportunity to establish a “Belt and Road” technological innovation cooperation zone to expedite the creation of a new educational openness system and continuously invigorate collaboration in technological innovation while exploring integrated models for developing educational and technological talent.
