30 September 2026, The Ng Teng Fong · Sino Group Belt and Road Research Institute (NSBRRI) at Hong Kong Chu Hai College welcomed Ms. Dorien Laermans, Deputy Consul General of Belgium in Hong Kong and Macau, for discussions aimed at strengthening institutional partnerships and academic collaboration between Belgium and Hong Kong.

Ms. Jane Zhang, President of Hong Kong Chu Hai College, presented the College’s academic vision and commitment to global engagement. She highlighted efforts to expand international opportunities for students, strengthen institutional relationships, and promote cross-regional dialogue. President Zhang also stressed the importance of developing new collaborations with institutions worldwide.

Expanding Global Partnerships through Dialogue and Exchange

Deputy Consul General Ms. Laermans shared insights into Belgium’s academic landscape and discussed potential collaboration with Hong Kong institutions. The discussion focused on academic partnerships, student engagement, cultural initiatives, and connections with leading Belgian universities and research organizations.

Professor Thomas Chan, Director of NSBRRI, outlined the Institute’s research agenda and collaborations with international institutes. He emphasized that stronger ties with Belgian universities, think tanks, and research organisations would promote scholarly exchange between Asia and Europe, enhance student learning, and support collaborative research. Professor Chan recommended practical, targeted initiatives to build long-term institutional partnerships.

The meeting provided an opportunity to compare Belgium’s higher education system with Hong Kong’s academic environment. Participants also discussed the Consulate General’s previous collaborations, Belgian cultural events in Hong Kong, and introductions to relevant universities and research organizations.

Sumbal Javed facilitated the exchange with the Deputy Consul General by supporting the institute’s international collaborations through diplomatic engagement and highlighted the institute’s contribution to understanding how Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area connect Belt and Road partners with global networks of research, innovation and technology.

President Zhang presented a souvenir to the Deputy Consul General and reiterated the importance of preparing students with the skills and perspectives needed to succeed globally. Professor Chan shared the journal Hong Kong Review of Belt and Road Studies, newsletter, and other publications. The meeting concluded with a group photo, and both parties expressed interest in continued communication and collaboration.