Zhang Xuzhen, head of the Non-Governmental Organizations Division at the United Nations (UN) Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), paid a visit to Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) on March 1.

Jia Wenjian, deputy secretary of the CPC BFSU committee and vice-president of the university, welcomed Zhang’s delegation. They engaged in talks aimed at enhancing collaboration between the university and the UN.

Zhang Xuzhen (L), head of the Non-Governmental Organizations Division at UN DESA, talks with Jia Wenjian (R), deputy secretary of the CPC BFSU committee and vice-president of the university, on March 1. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

During the meeting, Jia provided an overview of BFSU's founding principles, achievements in international exchanges and collaborations with various international organizations, emphasizing its longstanding relationship with UN entities. He highlighted the university's commitment to promoting international cooperation and expressed his desire for stronger ties with UN DESA to expand opportunities for BFSU students to engage with international organizations. 

Jia also called for potential collaborations on lectures and the development of non-governmental organization alliances. 

Zhang reciprocated by sharing insight into the Non-Governmental Organizations Division’s experiences in international organization talent cultivation and recruitment standards. He commended BFSU for its steadfast support of UN initiatives and praised the outstanding performance of BFSU students at the UN and other international organizations. 

Zhang expressed his hope for future collaboration, aiming to share his professional experiences while strengthening the overall partnership between the two institutions. 

Participants of the meeting gather for a group photo. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Subsequent to the formal meeting, Zhang engaged in a discussion with BFSU faculty and students from relevant departments.