A delegation led by Bohuslav Sobotka, former prime minister of the Czech Republic, paid a visit to Shanxi University (SXU) on Oct 21.

Principal Huang Guitian on behalf of SXU conveyed warm welcome to the delegates and gave brief introduction of the history, school-running philosophy and achievements of Shanxi University.

Huang expressed his appreciation and admiration for Mr Bohuslav's efforts and contributions to promoting the cultural exchange between China and the Czech Republic.

Huang also pointed out that in recent years, exchanges between China and the Czech Republic in various fields have become increasingly close. Especially, the establishment of the friendly relationship between Shanxi province in North China and the Moravia - Silesia State in the Czech Republic provided a rare opportunity for SXU to learn about the conditions of higher education in Czech Republic and strengthen school running cooperation between the two sides.

He also mentioned that SXU has carried out extensive scientific research cooperation and technical exchanges with institutions such as the University of Chemical and Technology Prague in the Czech Republic, and jointly undertaken intergovernmental international science and technology innovation cooperation key projects under the guidance of China's Ministry of Science and Technology and Shanxi Provincial People’s Government.

SXU also reached joint school-running cooperation agreements with the University of Chemical and Technology Prague.

Mr Bohuslav thanked the warm reception of SXU’s officials and spoke highly of the school's long school-running history and the cooperation that the two sides have already carried out.

He expressed his hopes that more mutual exchange and cultural identity between the two countries’ students will be promoted in the future.

The delegation also visited SXU’s library, Academy of Music, and School History Museum and watched some song and dance performances.

Shanxi University officials and a delegation led by Bohuslav Sobotka, former prime minister of the Czech Republic, pose for a group photo at Shanxi University on Oct 21. [Photo/sxu.edu.cn]

Shanxi University Principal Huang Guitian (R) presents a gift to Bohuslav Sobotka, former prime minister of the Czech Republic, at Shanxi University on Oct 21. [Photo/sxu.edu.cn]

A meeting between Shanxi University officials and a delegation led by Bohuslav Sobotka, former prime minister of the Czech Republic, is held at Shanxi University on Oct 21. [Photo/sxu.edu.cn]