The Portuguese minister of education, science and innovation, Fernando Alexandre, visited Peking University on 19 October. The delegation included the secretary of state for science and innovation, Helena Canhão, Portugal's ambassador to China, Manuel Carvalho, and representatives of Portuguese universities and research institutions.

The delegation was received by rector Gao Song and vice-rector Duan Huiling. The rector expressed interest in expanding partnerships with Portuguese institutions, building on cooperation with the universities of Lisbon and Coimbra.

He identified the protection of marine ecosystems, the energy transition, sustainable agriculture and the biomedical sciences as areas for deepening joint research. He also advocated the joint training of young talent and stronger linguistic and cultural exchanges, leveraging Portuguese-language programmes.

Fernando Alexandre said the visit aimed to deepen cooperation in higher education and research, through the exchange of teaching staff and students and joint research in the life sciences, marine science and agricultural science. He also noted the role of the Portugal–China Joint Commission on Science and Technology in defining bilateral priorities, with a view to achieving substantial progress.

The representatives also exchanged ideas on health, marine sciences, sustainable development and digital life, as well as on researcher exchanges and the training of students.

(Source: Peking University, 20 October)