Peking University, April 22, 2023: The Peking University School of International Studies on April 15-16 held a seminar themed "New Era International Relations Theory Innovation" to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the International Political Economy Program. The seminar aimed to address major theoretical and practical questions in response to unprecedented changes in the world. The event also celebrated the publication of the first volume of the “Peking University International Relations Theory Innovation Series” titled “Rethinking Globalization: Theories, Histories and Prospects.”

Over 50 experts and scholars from more than 20 universities and research institutes, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Renmin University of China, Nanjing University, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and China Foreign Affairs University, engaged in in-depth exchanges on the theory, history, trends, and regional responses to globalization. The event was attended by more than a hundred faculty staff and students.

Discussion between Faculty and invited Guests.

The event was graced by Wang Bo, vice president and provost of Peking University, Chen Zhimin, vice president of Fudan University, Zhang Yuyan, member of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and director of the Institute of World Economics and Politics, Qin Yaqing, former president of the China Foreign Affairs University and visiting professor at Shandong University, Yang Qun, editor-in-chief and reviewer of the Social Sciences Academic Press China, Tang Shiqi, dean of the School of International Studies at Peking University, and Wang Zhengyi, director of the academic committee of the School of International Relations.

During the opening ceremony, the speakers emphasized the importance of theoretical innovation in the field of international relations, especially in the current rapidly evolving global landscape. They highlighted the growing interdependence between politics and economics, the need for greater attention to their interaction, and the importance of rethinking and repositioning China's theories of international relations in the new era.

The release of the book "Rethinking Globalization: Theories, Histories, and Prospects" was also discussed as a significant contribution to the exploration and rethinking of globalization. As a consolidation of research outcomes by the faculty of the School of International Studies, the book provides guidance on theoretical, practical, and historical aspects related to globalization, which is becoming increasingly important in the context of the resurgence of nationalism and intensified great power competition. The book was also seen as an organized effort to support the construction of an independent knowledge system for international relations and to serve the needs of the development strategy for social sciences in China.

Opening Address by Tang Shiqi

Address by Wang Bo

 

Virtual Address by Chen Zhimin

Address by Zhang Yuyan

Address by Qin Yaqing

Address by Yang Qun

After the book launch, the seminar was divided into five sessions across two days, discussing themes ranging from "Globalization and International Relations: Theories, Histories, and Prospects," to “The Growth of International Politics: Geopolitics and Changes to the World Economy, to “China and the Study of International Political Economy.”

Guest speakers interacting with faculty from Peking University School of International Studies in the various seminars

Tea Session 

Group Photo

The seminar was a tremendous success in gathering international relations scholars from all around China to exchange views, celebrate the achievements of the International Political Economy program, and chart out a new path forward for international relations theory in China.
 
Written by: Ang Shao Heng
Edited by: Su Huangyi
Source: PKU News (Chinese)