China Alumni Reception Successfully Held by the University of Groningen in Beijing

On the evening of May 23, the 2025 China Alumni Reception of the University of Groningen was successfully held at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in China. The event was jointly organized by the University’s Alumni Office and the Dutch Embassy in China, with valuable support from the China Alumni Community. It coincided with the visit of Professor Jouke de Vries, President of the University of Groningen, and his delegation to China. More than 50 Groningen alumni and friends from various sectors in both China and the Netherlands gathered to reconnect and celebrate their shared ties. The event was hosted by Ms. Xuefei Knoester-Cao, the Policy Advisor for East Asia from the Department of International Strategy and Relations.

The reception began with a welcome speech by Mr. Roderick Wols, Deputy Head of Mission at the Dutch Embassy. He warmly welcomed Professor Jouke de Vries and all the alumni, and expressed high appreciation for their long-standing efforts in promoting friendly exchanges between China and the Netherlands. Mr. Wols emphasized that alumni are vital ambassadors of people-to-people ties between the two countries. He hoped the event would spark new ideas and give alumni the opportunity to relive their experiences of studying and working in the Netherlands, while strengthening the role of alumni in fostering bilateral exchanges.

Professor Jouke de Vries expressed his heartfelt welcome to all alumni on behalf of the University, and extended sincere gratitude to the Dutch Embassy and the Alumni Association for their hard work in organizing the event. He then shared the outcomes of the University’s current visit to China and introduced the institution’s plans for future international collaboration. Professor de Vries stressed that the very essence of scientific inquiry requires international cooperation. The University remains committed to interdisciplinary research on global challenges and will continue to support global partnerships. He encouraged alumni to stay engaged with the University and contribute to its development through active participation in alumni events.

Professor Elmer Sterken, Special Advisor for International Strategy and Relations and professor at the Faculty of Economics and Business, delivered a keynote address titled “Climate Change and Public Finance.” He noted that countries facing high temperatures, climate vulnerability, and debt burdens are particularly susceptible to fiscal impacts from climate anomalies. He recommended that governments integrate climate risk into fiscal sustainability planning, reform tax systems, strengthen green fiscal instruments, and establish early warning mechanisms. His speech sparked a lively exchange on topics such as climate finance and sustainable development.

Yu Chen, China Alumni Ambassador of the University of Groningen and President of the Association of Chinese Students and Scholars in the Netherlands, delivered remarks on behalf of the alumni community. He shared that the experience of studying and living in Groningen had left a deep and lasting impact on every alumnus. Since its formation five years ago, the alumni community has focused on fostering engagement among graduates and building a bridge between China and the Netherlands. He encouraged alumni to continue participating in community events and contributing to its vibrancy.

During the interactive session, several alumni shared their personal stories of studying in Groningen and their career paths after returning to China. One alumnus reflected, “The University of Groningen not only enriched my knowledge but also helped me appreciate the importance of intercultural understanding and international cooperation.” Another added, “I look forward to attending more alumni events and contributing to academic and industry collaboration between China and the Netherlands.” The event concluded with group photos, lively networking, and a joyful atmosphere of reunion and friendship. After the speeches and keynote session, alumni and guests enjoyed dinner and conversation. The reception concluded in a warm and joyful atmosphere.