Peking University, Mar. 21, 2019: Harvard University President Lawrence S. Bacow paid a visit to Peking University on March 20, after he assumed the presidency last year and became the 29th president of the foremost U.S. higher institution. Peking University President Hao Ping received the delegation at Linhuxuan where both sides had a constructive dialogue.
Lawrence S. Bacow meeting with Hao Ping
Hao Ping reviewed the bilateral cooperation history that can date back to as early as 100 years ago, and he highly acknowledged the collaboration of both sides over the past few years in promoting students and faculty exchanges, sharing library resources, developing MOOCs and establishing joint labs in interdisciplinary areas. Hao Ping then expressed his sincere hope that Harvard University can join hands with Peking University in more fields, such as conducting research on energy and environment, reaching collaboration in medical sciences and developing AI.
Lawrence S. Bacow highlighted the significance of forging closer ties with Peking University, especially in the difficult time when both countries are struggling to mediate bilateral relations. Bacow emphasized that students and faculty members from both universities have a lot more to do in a bid to mend the relationship of our two countries. He also extended his anticipation that both sides will achieve more fruitful results through deeper cooperation in numerous areas.
During his half-day visit, Bacow also went to the Old Collections Library where he appreciated the ancient scripts and books and learn more about the history behind them. Afterwards, Bacow delivered a thought-provoking speech at Yingjie Exchange Center with the theme “The Pursuit of truth and the Mission of the University”. Drawing upon his abundant experiences, Bacow shared his insights with the attendees, saying that great universities stand for truth, excellence and opportunity, and he believed that the joyful dialogue between our two universities can endure.
Lawrence S. Bacow giving a speech at Yingjie Exchange Center
Until now, Peking University has welcomed four presidents of Harvard University, including Neil Rudenstine who addressed at the ceremony that celebrated PKU’s centennial in 1998 and Lawrence Summers who came to Peking University in 2002. Moreover, former Harvard University President Drew Gilpin Faust even visited Peking University twice, in 2008 and 2015 respectively. This time, Lawrence S. Bacow was the fourth Harvard University president who visited Peking University over the past two decades and also his first time to PKU since he took office in July 2018.
Reported by: Huang Weijian
Edited by: Zhang Jiang
