Chinese Delegation Visits BZU

On 28 February 2012,
BZU received a delegation from the Republic of China (PRC), comprising a group
of businessmen, investors, academics and media professionals, in addition to
the Palestinian Ambassador to China, Mr. Ahmad Abbas Ramadan. The aim of the
visit was for delegation members to examine closely the situation of higher
education in Palestine and explore potential collaboration.

BZU President, Dr. Khalil Hindi, gave
a briefing on the University’s development and progress, as well as the
challenges encountered under Israeli occupation. He also informed the
delegation of the formation of a committee to explore the possibility of
establishing a center for Chinese studies and the possibility of teaching
Chinese as a Foreign Language at BZU. Moreover, Dr. Hindi discussed the
possibility of internships for Birzeit University students at Chinese
institutions which will provide them with an unequalled opportunity to learn.
He also recommended student exchange programs in terms of receiving Chinese
students at Birzeit University to learn Arabic at the
Palestine and Arabic Studies Program (PAS) at BZU.

Ambassador Ramadan
spoke about Israeli practices that hinder BZU’s progress, emphasizing the
Palestinian resilience in the prevailing circumstances.

Director of the Chinese
Research Center and head of the delegation, Dr. Liu Kang, considered this short
visit a successful initiative. He noted that the delegation was deeply touched
by the Palestinian hospitality. He commented: "The visit helped the
Chinese businessmen to see up close the conditions and current opportunities in
the region.”