Vladimir N. Vasilyev, rector of Information Technologies, Mechanics and Optics University (ITMO) in Russia, visited Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) on Sept 16.

Leaders of BFSU and ITMO pose for a group photo. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Jia Wenjian, BFSU's president and deputy-secretary of the CPC BFSU Committee, and Zhao Gang, member of the Standing Committee of the CPC BFSU Committee and vice-president of the university, met with the delegation.

During the meeting, Jia outlined BFSU's history, academic development and cooperation with Russian institutions, noting that the visit comes as China and Russia mark the Year of Education. He said that joint interdisciplinary talent cultivation between the two universities, drawing on their distinct strengths, would carry pioneering significance for deepening higher education exchange and strengthening the foundation of people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Vasilyev introduced ITMO's scale, disciplinary profile and international partnerships, with a focus on the university's work in AI-enabled education. He spoke highly of the joint programs the two sides are building and expressed confidence in long-term, mutually reinforcing cooperation.

Jia Wenjian (left) and Vladimir N. Vasilyev pose for a group photo after signing an agreement. [Photo/bfsu.edu.cn]

Following the meeting, the two sides signed a framework cooperation agreement.