Delegation of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) visits Global Neighbours

On September 19, 2025, Global Neighbours welcomed a high-level delegation from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). The delegation included leading representatives of the specialized research institutes as well as distinguished editors from prominent Chinese academic journals, such as The Chinese Journal of European Studies, China International Studies, Foreign Affairs Review and The Journal of World Economics and Politics.

The visit provided a platform for a rich exchange of perspectives on Europe–China academic cooperation, as well as broader geopolitical questions. Discussions focused on the transformation of international order since the Second World War and the Cold War, the importance of identifying shared global objectives and the promotion of dialogue between regions. In this context, particular attention was given to China’s long historic experience in governance, which participants recognized as a valuable reference for studying in the context of today’s international frameworks.

Another key theme was the potential for China–Europe collaboration in Africa, a subject of growing importance and also a focus of an upcoming Global Neighbours workshop. Both sides expressed a shared interest in exploring joint initiatives in this field.

The meeting further highlighted potential areas of cooperation within the Global Neighbours Insights series – fact-based publications that capture perspectives from different world regions on timely and pressing topics. Opportunities were also discussed for inviting European scholars to contribute to leading Chinese academic journals, thereby promoting a more balanced and diverse global discourse. One potential topic is the timely issue of AI governance and the application of AI in industry.

Beyond publishing and research, additional opportunities for collaboration were explored. Among them, the Global Neighbours Train Project was presented – an ambitious initiative aimed at exploring the complex and diverse regions along the modern Silk Road.

Both parties agreed on the importance of continuing their dialogue, coordinating joint efforts and further strengthening channels of academic cooperation and international dialogue.