Exchange agreements signed by Chinese university leaders

By Richard North 2 August 2012 - A group of senior Chinese academics has visited Sydney as part of a drive by leading universities in both countries to fortify their academic links. Four university presidents and three vice-presidents from the C9 - China's top research universities -held talks with the Vice-Chancellor, Michael Spence, and other University executives about joint research projects and exchange programs. The Chinese delegates are holding a series of meetings with their equivalents in the Group of Eight, Australia's leading research-intensive universities. Their visit to Sydney included a presentation by Professor Steve Simpson, Academic Director of the Charles Perkins Centre, and an overview of the University's engagement in China by Professor Jeff Riegel, Head of the School of Languages and Cultures. Spence said Sydney's commitment to China was highlighted by the recently-opened China Studies Centre, which brings together more than 130 academics from across the University. Sydney staff are currently involved in 60 joint research projects with China's leading universities. Professor John Hearn, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor International, added: "The timing of this visit is significant, as Australia celebrates 40 years of diplomatic engagement with China in 2012.