Hong Kong ‘pivotal’ to rebuilding Canada-China academic links, experts say
Hong Kong positioned as bridge for fresh collaboration between Ottawa and Beijing in higher education, engineering, research and innovation
Deans from several of Canada’s top engineering programmes are exploring new academic exchange opportunities in Hong Kong, as relations between Ottawa and Beijing warm, with a forum organiser highlighting the city’s “pivotal role” in rebuilding ties.
Speaking at the Canadian Engineering Asia-Pacific Conference, academics expressed hope that their students could learn from mainland China’s “impressive” development while also highlighting opportunities arising from major national projects in both jurisdictions.
The event, held on Saturday in Hong Kong, celebrated the centenary of Canada’s Iron Ring tradition, in which engineering graduates commit to upholding the profession’s standards and ethics.
The conference, which brought together deans from eight Canadian universities and more than 200 engineering professionals from across the region, follows the launch of a new strategic partnership between Ottawa and Beijing after nearly a decade of frosty relations.
Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong acknowledged the emerging opportunities that renewed relations could bring, particularly in the innovation and technology (I&T) sector, during his opening remarks at the event.
“Over the years, Hong Kong and Canada have shared many similarities and a wide range of common interests,” he said.