As of 2024, China has signed significant agreements with countries like France, Serbia, and Hungary to strengthen cooperation in culture, education, sports, and tourism. Progress in China-Europe collaboration has contributed to deepening interpersonal and cultural exchanges, with higher education cooperation emerging as a vital area supporting this momentum.
Higher education cooperation between China and European countries began with language education. Chinese universities now offer courses in all 24 official languages of the European Union, while Confucius Institutes across Europe promote Chinese language instruction. Since the launch of the “Belt and Road” Initiative, there has been rapid growth in foreign language education in China. Chinese universities have also initiated programs involving foreign faculty and strengthened teaching and research collaborations.
China-Europe cooperation has reached new heights in higher education with the development of joint education programs. A notable example is the China-EU School of Law at the China University of Political Science and Law, established in 2008. The school serves as a bridge between the two sides, focusing on legal research, professional training, and academic collaboration. Another flagship project is the China-Europe Clean and Renewable Energy Institute, founded in 2012. This institute specializes in training experts in renewable energy and is recognized as a leading platform in China-Europe higher education collaboration.
Growing workforce demands in sectors such as e-commerce and new energy vehicles have diversified vocational education partnerships. Joint projects in vocational training support economic cooperation while fostering stronger ties between China and Europe.
The developments in higher education under China-Europe cooperation are making significant contributions to the shared development goals of the “Belt and Road” Initiative, signaling deeper economic and cultural connections between the two sides.