The Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) and Hangzhou Dianzi University (HDU) of China signed today on June 20, 2023 an agreement for the establishment of the Confucius Institute. The agreement was signed by Rector Panagiotis Zafiris of CUT and Rector ZHU Zefei of HDU. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of His Excellency Ambassador Liu Yantao, Ambassador of China to Cyprus.
The establishment of the Confucius Institute at CUT marks an important milestone in cultural exchanges between Cyprus and China and will serve as a living hub for students, scholars and community members interested in deepening their understanding of Chinese culture. The Confucius Institute at CUT will serve as a dedicated center and offer a range of language courses, cultural activities, academic exchanges, and research initiatives. Through these activities, the Institute aims to cultivate intercultural competences, promote academic cooperation and deepen understanding and appreciation of the Chinese language, traditions and heritage in the Cypriot community.
Rector Panayiotis Zaphiris expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting venture with Hangzhou Dianzi University. The establishment of the Confucius Institute at Cyprus University of Technology will provide an invaluable opportunity for our students and the wider community to engage with Chinese language and culture. We look forward to a fruitful partnership that will promote intercultural dialogue, academic exchange, and foster stronger bonds between our nations.”
Rector ZHU Zefei of HDU also conveyed his optimism about the collaboration, emphasizing: “The establishment of the Confucius Institute at Cyprus University of Technology is a testament to the deepening friendship between China and Cyprus. We are delighted to work alongside CUT in promoting the rich heritage of the Chinese language and culture. This partnership will contribute to cultural diversity, academic exchange, and the strengthening of bilateral relations.”
The ambassador of China in Cyprus, His Excellency Liu Yantao, emphasized the significance of the Confucius Institute in enhancing cultural ties, saying: “The establishment of the Confucius Institute at Cyprus University of Technology marks a new chapter in the cultural exchange between China and Cyprus. This institute will serve as a bridge for cultural understanding and promote people-to-people connections. It is a testament to the enduring friendship between our nations.”
With the establishment of the Confucius Institute, both Cyprus University of Technology and Hangzhou Dianzi University are poised to deepen their collaboration in the fields of education, research, and cultural exchange. This partnership will contribute to the enrichment of academic and cultural experiences for students, faculty, and the broader community.
Source: Cyprus University of Technology | News (https://rb.gy/ev1jp)