On October 14, 2020, a significant milestone in Sino-European relations was achieved with the joint establishment of the EU Economic and Strategic Research Center by the Bank of China, Peking University, and the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China. This initiative aims to foster a robust platform for enhancing financial cooperation and cultural exchanges between China and the European Union, two pivotal entities in the global economic landscape.

The signing ceremony featured prominent figures, including Liu Liange, Chairman of the Bank of China, Hao Ping, President of Peking University, and Zhou Lihong, President of the EU Chamber of Commerce, who emphasized the center's role in bridging gaps between the two regions. Chairman Liu underscored the Bank of China's commitment to leveraging its global operational advantages to encourage comprehensive strategic cooperation, promoting educational development, and nurturing talent within the framework of international collaboration.

President Hao articulated the importance of the center as a think tank that will bolster China’s engagement with Europe. His vision for Peking University’s participation is to harness its research capabilities to position the center as a leading institution for EU studies. By aligning academic resources with financial expertise, the initiative holds potential for creating significant insights into China-EU relations.

Furthermore, President Zhou highlighted the chamber’s commitment to developing the center into a research institution with notable decision-making influence. This collaborative effort will concentrate on critical areas such as trade, investment, finance, and digital economy, thereby addressing pressing national development needs and economic diplomacy.

The agreement signifies a strategic alignment of resources and expertise to create an open, internationalized platform aimed at facilitating a comprehensive dialogue on critical issues affecting the China-EU agenda. In a world characterized by rapid changes and interconnected challenges, the EU Economic and Strategic Research Center represents a proactive step toward cultivating mutual understanding and cooperation between two influential regions.

In conclusion, the establishment of this center reflects a commitment to strengthening dialogue and collaboration in an era where global partnerships are essential. By pooling knowledge and resources, the Bank of China, Peking University, and the European Union Chamber of Commerce are poised to contribute meaningfully to the discourse on economic and strategic relations between China and Europe.