On March 18, H.E. Lilianne Ploumen, former Netherlands' minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, visited Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU).

H.E. Lilianne Ploumen and BFSU's vice-president Zhao Gang have exchanges. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

During the meeting, Zhao Gang, BFSU's vice-president and a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC BFSU Committee, highlighted BFSU's achievements in talent cultivation and academic development.

Zhao emphasized the university's commitment to fostering cross-cultural exchanges and creating platforms for youth interaction, which build trust for global development and trade. He expressed gratitude for the Dutch Embassy's longstanding support and looked forward to exploring innovative and diverse collaborations with Dutch universities to enhance Sino-Dutch youth exchanges and cultural understanding.

Ploumen praised BFSU's accomplishments in academic development and its contributions to cultural exchanges.

She remarked that languages build bridges of understanding and youth exchanges form bonds of trust. She stressed that in the current international climate, maintaining open dialogues and fostering mutual understanding are crucial for peace and development.

H.E. Lilianne Ploumen delivers a keynote lecture at BFSU. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Following the meeting, Ploumen delivered a lecture on "Women's Empowerment" to BFSU faculty and students, sharing her experiences and insights in personal growth and women's development. She encouraged young women to have confidence and courage in shaping their futures.

Zhao welcomed the lecture by introducing BFSU's outstanding female alumni and professors and highlighting the university's inclusive and diligent spirit in promoting youth development and communication.

H.E. Lilianne Ploumen engages discussions with BFSU's students. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

The lecture also featured a dialogue session, where first-year students from BFSU's Dutch language program performed a captivating poetry recital, earning praise from the attendees.