Georgian Education Minister explores expanding higher education ties with Lanzhou University leadership

Georgia’s Minister of Education, Science, and Youth, Givi Mikanadze, visited Lanzhou University (LZU) during his trip to the People’s Republic of China, leading an official delegation.

Ma Xiaojie, Secretary of the CPC Committee at Lanzhou University, and Professor Yan Yongping, President of LZU and a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, received the minister.

According to the Ministry of Education’s press service, the meeting underscored the importance of the strategic partnership and long-standing friendship between Georgia and China.

“Particular emphasis was placed on deepening higher education ties, expanding academic links between universities, and delivering joint educational initiatives. It was highlighted that Lanzhou University has a strong track record of active collaboration with Georgian higher education institutions, creating a solid foundation upon which to further develop this partnership,” the Ministry noted in a statement.

The discussions also touched on the operations and future development of Confucius Institutes operating across Georgian universities.

“Both parties underlined the role of these institutes in promoting Chinese language and culture, boosting academic engagement, and broadening educational links between our two nations. The meeting specifically highlighted the successful, long-standing collaboration between Lanzhou University and Alte University through the Confucius Institute framework, as well as opportunities to expand this into other academic disciplines,” the statement continued.

The two sides agreed to launch joint educational and scientific projects designed to broaden and consolidate their long-term partnership.

Senior representatives from Lanzhou University, Alte University, and the Embassy of Georgia to the People’s Republic of China attended the meeting.