On April 6, Xin Zhao, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), met with a delegation led by Prinat Apirat, Consul General of Thailand in Shanghai, at the Student Center on SJTU’s Minhang campus. The two sides engaged in productive dialogue focused on cultural exchange and international cooperation.
Zhao warmly welcomed Consul General Apirat and provided an overview of SJTU’s achievements in academic development, talent cultivation, and international education. He emphasized the long-standing relationship between China and Thailand, noting their deep cultural connections, geographical proximity, and mutual appreciation for each other’s film, literature, and cuisine. He also highlighted the day’s SJTUers’ Festival, where students from nearly 30 countries and regions showcased the university’s diverse community by presenting their local cuisines and cultures.
Currently, around 150 Thai students are enrolled at SJTU, and the university maintains strong partnerships institutions such as Mahidol University and Kasetsart University. Zhao expressed hopes for bolstering collaboration in student exchange and technology transfer, and encouraged more outstanding Thai students to pursue academic opportunities at SJTU.
Apirat expressed her gratitude for the warm reception and praised SJTU’s commitment to developing international talent and building a truly global institution. She pointed out the expanding educational collaboration between the two nations in recent years, particularly in faculty and student exchange programs. As a world-renowned institution known for its science and engineering programs, SJTU is especially attractive to Thai students. The Consulate General will continue to serve as a bridge between SJTU and Thailand’s top universities in order to promote bilateral exchanges, strengthen academic ties, and increase SJTU’s visibility among Thai students. Apirat called attention to the year 2025, or the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand—designated as the "Golden Year of Friendship". The Consulate General, Apirat affirmed, will continue to promote mutual understanding and deepen cooperation in education and culture, contributing to a shared future between the two countries.
Following the meeting, the Thai delegation enjoyed the “Brilliance” gala, an evening of cultural performances in celebration of the SJTUers’ Festival, and mingled with international students at the booths.
Representatives from the International Affairs Division and the Student Affairs Committee (Youth League Committee) also attended the meeting.
Author: Chen Siyi
Contributor: International Affairs Division
Editor: Shi Ruyu
