Laily UPN
The University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) successfully concluded its International Dialogue 2017 Annual Convention in Beijing on November 26th, a pivotal two-day event that convened students, academics, and officials to explore the evolving landscape of economic globalization and the crucial role of youth in shaping its future. The convention, held on November 25-26, underscored a profound commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and equipping the next generation with the skills and perspectives necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
UIBE President Highlights Youth’s Role in Globalized Future
Wang Jiaqiong, President of UIBE, set the tone for the convention with a powerful address emphasizing the significance of the chosen theme: "The Opening-Up in the New Era & Youth Exchange." He articulated that this theme not only reflects a resolute confidence in the continued promotion of economic globalization but also serves as a clarion call for young people to embrace their responsibility in this dynamic global environment. President Wang further elaborated on the convention’s core objective: to cultivate young individuals who can serve as effective ambassadors for international relations and cross-cultural dialogue. "I hope this convention can inspire young people to broaden their vision and enhance their cross-cultural communication ability," he stated, underscoring the practical skills and intellectual expansion the program aims to foster. This vision aligns with broader global trends that recognize the indispensable contribution of a globally-minded youth in addressing complex international challenges and seizing emerging opportunities.
The Genesis and Evolution of International Dialogue at UIBE
The International Dialogue Annual Convention, now in its latest iteration, has become a cornerstone of UIBE’s commitment to internationalization. While the specific year of its inception is not detailed in the provided content, the consistent annual hosting signifies a sustained effort to create a platform for global engagement. UIBE, as a leading institution in China specializing in international economics and trade, has a long-standing tradition of preparing students for careers in the global arena. The International Dialogue convention builds upon this legacy by directly engaging students in substantive discussions and research projects that mirror the complexities of international affairs.
The convention’s focus on "Opening-Up in the New Era" is particularly resonant. China’s reform and opening-up policy, initiated in the late 1970s, has fundamentally transformed the nation’s economic and social landscape, integrating it more deeply into the global economy. The "new era" likely refers to the current phase of this policy, characterized by a greater emphasis on innovation, sustainable development, and a more outward-looking approach that seeks to foster mutual benefit and shared prosperity. In this context, empowering youth to understand and contribute to this ongoing process is paramount.
A Foundation for Understanding: The Power of Dialogue
Adding a crucial layer of insight into the philosophical underpinnings of the convention, Zhang Baijia, former Deputy Director of the Party History Research Center of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, offered a profound perspective on the nature of dialogue. He distinguished it from mere argument or negotiation, stating, "Dialogue is an important way to communicate with each other, unlike argument or negotiation, where both sides seek common points while reserving differences." This distinction is vital. It suggests that the convention prioritizes a space for genuine understanding, where participants are encouraged to listen, empathize, and find common ground, rather than solely focusing on winning points or reaching concessions. This approach is particularly effective in fostering long-term, sustainable international relationships.
Launch of the Global Development and Creative Youth Project: A Landmark Initiative
A significant development during the International Dialogue 2017 Annual Convention was the official launch of UIBE’s Global Development and Creative Youth Project. This ambitious initiative immediately garnered participation from over 140 students hailing from 25 different countries, marking a robust start to its inaugural year. The project is conceptualized as an international scientific research activity designed to engage the world’s youth in meaningful inquiry.
The structure of the project is designed for deep engagement. Students are organized into 25 research groups, each tasked with selecting a specific topic for five months of intensive research. The thematic scope of these research endeavors is deliberately focused on critical issues in global development that directly impact youth. Notably, the Belt and Road Initiative, a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy and a significant driver of global connectivity and economic development, is highlighted as a key area of inquiry. This inclusion demonstrates a commitment to engaging young minds with contemporary geopolitical and economic phenomena.
Research Proposals and Academic Mentorship: Cultivating Critical Thinking
The convention provided a crucial platform for the initial stages of the Global Development and Creative Youth Project. Following the selection of their research topics and the refinement of their scope of inquiry, the student teams participated in a round-table conference. This conference served as a forum for them to present and discuss their research proposals, receiving valuable feedback and guidance.
To ensure academic rigor and provide expert support, each research group was assigned a dedicated professor. These mentors, drawn from both UIBE’s esteemed faculty and leading universities abroad, offer invaluable expertise and guidance throughout the research process. This mentorship model is designed to not only enhance the quality of the research but also to foster academic relationships and broaden the students’ professional networks.
The research process is further structured with two dedicated writing workshops scheduled for January and March. These workshops will provide students with the necessary skills and support to articulate their findings effectively. The culmination of this intensive research period will be the completion of their essays by the end of March, representing a significant academic achievement for each participant.
Establishing a Hub for Youth Exchange: The UIBE Research Center on Youth Exchange
Complementing the launch of the Global Development and Creative Youth Project, the convention also witnessed the inauguration of the UIBE Research Center on Youth Exchange. This center signifies UIBE’s institutional commitment to creating a sustained and structured environment for fostering meaningful interactions between Chinese and international youth. Its overarching aim is to build a robust platform that facilitates the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences, thereby nurturing a generation of globally-aware citizens.
The establishment of such a center is timely, given the increasing complexity of global challenges that require collaborative solutions. By providing a dedicated space and resources for youth exchange, UIBE is actively contributing to building bridges of understanding and fostering a sense of shared responsibility among young people worldwide. This initiative aligns with broader international efforts to promote people-to-people diplomacy and build a more peaceful and prosperous global future.
Supporting Data and Contextualizing the Convention’s Impact
The participation of over 140 students from 25 countries in the Global Development and Creative Youth Project underscores the growing global interest in understanding contemporary development challenges and the role of youth in addressing them. According to UNESCO, youth (aged 15-24) comprise nearly 16% of the world’s population, a demographic group with immense potential to drive social, economic, and political change. Initiatives like UIBE’s project are vital in channeling this potential effectively.
The Belt and Road Initiative, a key research area, is a multi-trillion dollar infrastructure development strategy that aims to connect Asia with Africa and Europe via land and maritime networks. Its success hinges on fostering understanding and cooperation among participating nations, a process that can be significantly enhanced by the insights and perspectives of young people who will inherit its legacy. Studies on youth engagement in international development projects have shown that their active participation leads to more inclusive and sustainable outcomes.
Furthermore, the emphasis on cross-cultural communication skills is critical. In an era where global interconnectedness is a reality, the ability to understand and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds is no longer a soft skill but a fundamental requirement for professional success and effective global citizenship. Data from the World Economic Forum consistently highlights the demand for intercultural competency in the modern workforce.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The International Dialogue 2017 Annual Convention and the concurrent launch of the Global Development and Creative Youth Project and the UIBE Research Center on Youth Exchange represent a strategic investment in the future of international relations. By empowering young people with research experience, academic mentorship, and a platform for dialogue, UIBE is actively contributing to the development of a new generation of global leaders and innovators.
The focus on issues like the Belt and Road Initiative demonstrates a forward-looking approach, encouraging students to engage with contemporary geopolitical and economic phenomena that will shape the global landscape for decades to come. The emphasis on dialogue over argument, as articulated by Zhang Baijia, suggests a commitment to fostering genuine understanding and cooperation, which are essential for navigating the complexities of globalization.
The success of these initiatives will be measured not only by the quality of the research produced but also by the long-term impact on the participants’ careers and their contributions to global development. As these young ambassadors return to their respective countries, armed with enhanced knowledge, broadened perspectives, and strengthened cross-cultural communication skills, they are poised to become influential voices in shaping a more interconnected and cooperative world. The convention, therefore, stands as a testament to UIBE’s dedication to fostering global citizenship and its belief in the transformative power of youth engagement in the new era of globalization.
Pevita Pearce
