Peking University, June 30, 2025: A Peking University (PKU) delegation led by President Gong Qihuang concluded a four-day visit to Italy on June 25, reinforcing academic cooperation with top Italian universities and think tanks. 

In Turin, Gong Qihuang met with Stefano Geuna, Rector of the University of Turin, emphasizing expanded collaboration in areas such as humanities, law and global governance through the platform "TOPChina Center.” Mr. Geuna expressed interest in joint curriculum and youth development with PKU. 

Gong Qihuang also held talks with Andrea Gavosto, Director of Fondazione Agnelli, where they reviewed the phased achievements of the "Agnelli Chair of Italian Culture.”

In Venice, Gong Qihuang expressed his gratitude to Tiziana Lippiello, Rector of the Ca’Foscari University of Venice, for her contribution in promoting the Dialogue between Chinese and Italian University Presidents. He expressed PKU’s commitment to further expanding cooperation in fields such as global governance, cultural inheritance, and the cultivation of dual-degree students, while Ms. Lippiello expressed her willingness to jointly build a humanities academic community.

Gong Qihuang then visited the Berggruen Institute Europe to discuss inter-civilizational dialogue and youth engagement with Director Lorenzo Marsili. They agreed to launch joint initiatives such as the "Yanyuan-Three-Eyes Mansion".

In Bologna, Gong Qihuang paid a visit to Romano Prodi, the former Prime Minister of Italy, former President of the European Commission, and the Agnelli Chair Professor at Peking University, who reaffirmed support for China-Italy academic ties. Gong Qihuang also held talks with Giovanni Molari, Rector of University of Bologna, on issues such as higher education governance, digital humanities, and green development.



At the University of Florence, Gong Qihuang exchanged views with Rector Alessandra Petrucci on cooperation in areas such as humanities and arts, cultural heritage protection, and archaeological research, and explored promoting multi-dimensional cooperation in Renaissance studies, digital humanities, and cross-cultural understanding.

During their stay in Italy, the delegation also met with Chinese Ambassador to Italy Jia Guide, who praised PKU's contribution to China-Italy exchange and pledged continued support in the area.

This visit builds on the outcomes of the Dialogue between Chinese and Italian University Presidents and advances bilateral agreements reached by the two heads of state.

Written by: Zhuo Yaying
Edited by: Phoon Hui Yin, Andrena, Chen Shizhuo
Source: PKU News (Chinese)