The China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE) visited the Netherlands on Wednesday November 20th with a delegation of 50 high-level delegates from reputed Chinese Universities. The “Vrije Universiteit” in Amsterdam hosted the visit. The Program was opened by a speech by prof. Vinod Subramananiam, Rector of the University.

Part of the Program was a round table discussion on the topics:

- Common goals – sustainable future

- Policy frameworks and conditions for balanced partnerships
- Opportunities in open access and open science
- Challenges for future Sino-European collaboration

Prof. Greidanus introduced the fourth topic. He started his speech by emphasizing that he sees more opportunities than challenges. The global landscape is changing rapidly, both economically and politically. Academic co-operation can make an important contribution to a better mutual understanding between The Netherlands and China. Both counties also share the same global challenges and are well positioned to work together on solutions.  To conclude his speech prof. Greidanus pointed out a challenge: obtaining a double degree at a Dutch and Chinese university.

（Picture: Prof. Greidanus discussing with prof. Gong Xiaobin from Jiangnan University in Wuxi.）