In the lead-up to the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations in 2025, a delegation from Kasetsart University (KU) in Thailand visited Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) recently. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and attended a concert organised by the two universities.
From left to right: Xiaoqiong (Helen) Li, Dr Davide Lombardi, Kirsty Mattinson, Dr Mohsen al Attar, Bessie Liu, Adam R Cross, Dr Fan Liu, Professor Qiuling Chao, Professor John Moraros, Dr Chongrak Wachrinrat, Professor Marc Aurel Schnabel, Dr Ngamlamai Piolueang, Dr Wanwipa Vongsangnak, and Dr Sornkitja Boonprong
Representatives from KU and XJTLU signed the MoU on 23 October.
The KU delegation at the signing were Dr Chongrak Wachrinrat, Acting President of KU; Dr Wanwipa Vongsangnak, Acting Dean of KU International College; and Sirirat Wachrinrat, Personal Assistant.
ACADEMIC PARTNERSHIP
The MoU will facilitate educational and cultural benefits for both universities through cooperation related to research and international study opportunities for students, scholars and professional staff.
The cooperative activities will include staff exchange or mutual visits; participation in seminars, symposiums, and academic meetings; special short-term academic programmes; development of joint research activities and publications; doctoral student training and development; student exchanges; and more.
The XJTLU representatives included Professor Qiuling Chao, Vice President for Student Affairs and Information, who welcomed the visitors; Adam R Cross, Associate Vice President of Education; Professor Jorg Bley, Dean of International Business School Suzhou; Professor John Moraros, Dean of the School of Science; Professor Marc Aurel Schnabel, Dean of the Design School; Dr Davide Lombardi, Head of the Department of Architecture; Teo Hidalgo Nácher of the Department of Architecture; Qijian Xie, Director of the Centre for Student Affairs; Kirsty Mattinson, Head of XJTLU Global; Xiaoqiong (Helen) Li, Manager at XJTLU Global; and Bessie Liu, Senior Manager at XJTLU Graduate School.
Perapan Kanjanahotitouch plays the guzheng
MUSICAL EXCHANGE
Led by Dr Wachrinrat, Dr Thongrob Ruenbanthoeng, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Dr Vongsangnak, and other academic staff and students joined the KU delegation at the concert on 26 October at XJTLU. The two universities arranged the concert to celebrate the diplomatic ties milestone.
Professor Zhoulin Ruan, Vice President for Academic Affairs at XJTLU, welcomed the audience and exchanged gifts with KU’s presidents.
Left to right: Dr Chongrak Wachrinrat and Professor Zhoulin Ruan
“This concert holds special significance as it not only marks a milestone in the diplomatic relations between China and Thailand but also serves as a testament to the enduring bond between our two nations,” Professor Ruan said.
“The cultural exchange and collaboration between our universities have played a pivotal role in strengthening this bond, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting friendship between our people.”
Conductor Surapol Thanyawibool leads the orchestra
The 80 members of the Kasetsart Winds orchestra, along with XJTLU’s Symphony Orchestra and Chinese Folk Orchestra, performed at the concert.
Conductor Nipat Kanchanahud (second from left) thanks the audience
By Tamara Kaup
Edited by Patricia Pieterse
Photos by Zuofu Wang
Video: Team at Arts Centre
Social Media Editor: Shinuo Xu and Yajun Ma
Supervisor: Qiuchen Hu
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