European Young Leaders Workshop in China Brings Together Young Professionals from More Than 20 European Countries

From 24 August to 2 September, the European Young Leaders Workshop was held in Beijing and Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, bringing together young professionals from more than 20 European countries. Over the course of the ten-day programme, participants had the opportunity to gain insights into contemporary Chinese diplomacy, technological and industrial development, as well as the country’s cultural and historical heritage. The workshop also provided a platform for building international professional networks and exchanging experiences among representatives from European countries.

The Latvian–Chinese Friendship Association (L.C.F.A.) was represented at the workshop by Santa Borisova. The programme began in Beijing with a visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China and a meeting with representatives of the Department of European Affairs. Discussions focused on opportunities for cooperation between Europe and China, including trade and economic relations, as well as the importance of intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.

As part of the programme in Beijing, participants visited the Beijing Robotics Center, Beijing E-City, where automated driving technologies were demonstrated, and the Xiaomi smart vehicle factory. During these visits, participants were introduced to the latest developments in robotics, industrial automation and autonomous driving technologies, as well as their practical applications across different areas of society and the economy.

An important part of the programme was also devoted to exploring Beijing’s cultural and historical heritage. Participants visited Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, where guided tours provided an overview of the development of Beijing’s historic centre, major historical events, the principles of traditional Chinese architecture, and the cultural and historical significance of these sites.

During the second part of the programme, participants travelled to Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province. In Hunan, they visited Yuelu Academy, museums dedicated to Hunan embroidery and traditional Chinese medicine, as well as technology and industrial enterprises. At EULON Robo, participants were introduced to technological solutions involving exoskeletons, while Zoomlion presented a range of industrial and agricultural machinery.

The workshop also included meetings with representatives of the Hunan Academy of Social Sciences and local enterprises. Discussions covered Hunan Province’s economic development, key industries, business environment and regional development prospects, while participants also exchanged experiences concerning the operations and achievements of local companies.

The European Young Leaders Workshop provided participants with a comprehensive insight into China’s contemporary political, economic, technological and cultural environment. At the same time, the programme created opportunities to establish new professional connections, exchange experiences and strengthen mutual understanding between young professionals from Europe and China.