On the afternoon of April 30, 2025, Dr. Timothy Kendall, Consul-General of Australia in Guangzhou, led a delegation to the School of International Governance Innovation (SIGI) at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS). The delegation included Deputy Consul-General Ms. Sophie Smith, Consul Mr. Jackson Barton, Government Relations Director Mr. Leslie Li, and Research Assistant Ms. Willow Li. Professor Zhao Longyue, dean of the SIGI, extended a warm welcome to the delegation and presided over the ensuing talks, which were attended by part of SIGI faculty and students.
During the Meeting
At the beginning of the meeting, Professor Zhao introduced the academic research, talent cultivation programs and international cooperation of SIGI to the delegation, which was highly appreciated by Dr. Timothy Kendall. The two sides engaged in extensive discussions on a range of topics, including the impact of the United States high-tariff policies, regional economic cooperation, and global economic governance. 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the official entry into force of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA). Both sides are exploring opportunities to jointly organize commemorative activities to further advance the sound development of bilateral economic and trade relations. Professor Zhao extended a warm invitation to Australian experts, scholars and young students to visit GDUFS and hoped that Dr. Timothy Kendall would actively support collaboration and academic exchanges between GDUFS and Australian universities.
Dr. Timothy Kendall expressed his gratitude to SIGI for its warm reception and emphasized the fruitful outcomes of the talks. He highlighted the potential for deepening cooperation in areas such as technology, education, and green economy, which would further strengthen people-to-people ties between the two nations. During the visit, the Australian delegation also interacted warmly with faculty and students, expressing anticipation to visit GDUFS again to chart a new chapter in exchange and cooperation.
Group Photo
