University of Ljubljana rector: Academic ties with China vital for a shared future

With the China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) Expo underway in Ningbo, CGTN's Zhang Meng interviewed Gregor Majdič, rector of the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia's largest and oldest university.

Majdič praised Ningbo as a "very green city," expressing admiration for its abundant green spaces, which he described as crucial in the era of global climate change. He emphasized the importance of nurturing international collaboration, especially at a time of shifting global dynamics and shared challenges like climate change and demographic shifts.

Highlighting existing programs at the University of Ljubljana, including Chinese language and culture courses in primary schools and a strong Asian Studies department, Majdič underscored the value of educational exchanges. "These programs not only deepen academic ties but also create mutual benefits in business and cultural understanding," he said, noting that Slovenians fluent in Chinese can help companies navigate the Chinese market, and vice versa.

Majdič called academia "the most important part" of global cooperation, stressing the need to strengthen international academic partnerships to ensure the well-being of the planet and the survival of humankind. "Although we come from different cultures, we live in one world," he said. "Together, we can help keep this world healthy and sustainable."