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CUHK showcases polar research and China-Thailand collaboration at international academic conference in Bangkok
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) was invited to participate in the academic conference “Xuelong 2 and the Future: Polar Research and China-Thailand Collaboration under Climate Change”, recently held at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations and the 70th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The event also marked the historic visit of China’s polar research vessel Xuelong 2 to Thailand on its return trip from Antarctica.
Jointly organised by the Polar Science Consortium of Thailand (PSCT), Chulalongkorn University and the Polar Research Institute of China (PRIC), the conference brought together government representatives, academics, researchers and polar expedition teams from China and Thailand to explore collaborative opportunities in climate science, marine biodiversity, polar physics and public education.
Professor Chan Wai-yee, CUHK’s Vice-President for Strategic Development, delivered a keynote speech, “Partnerships for a Sustainable Future: CUHK Involvement in Advancing Polar Research and International Cooperation”. It highlighted CUHK’s strategic framework agreement with PRIC, supported by China’s Ministry of Natural Resources, and its subsequent initiatives in polar research and talent development.
“CUHK is actively engaged in polar science, climate action and global academic collaboration,” said Professor Chan. “Through concrete research efforts, we aim to strengthen sustainable development and foster deeper connections within international scientific networks.”
In November 2024, CUHK scientists joined China’s 41st Antarctic expedition, collaborating with domestic and international partners to advance polar climate and ecology research. These efforts underscore CUHK’s role as a super-connector in global polar research, contributing to scientific progress and sustainable solutions.
Mr Sun Shuxian, China’s Vice Minister of Natural Resources (centre); Ms Chen Danhong, Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation of China’s Ministry of Natural Resources (6th left); Professor Dr Pairash Thajchayapong, Secretary General of The Information Technology Foundation under the Initiative of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (6th right); Associate Professor Dr Palanee Ammaranond, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University (5th right); Professor Chan Wai-yee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Developments) of CUHK (4th left); and other guests of honour attend the symposium on polar research and China-Thailand collaboration.
Over 100 delegates from China and Thailand attend the symposium.
From left to right: Professor Yam Yeung, Director of the CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute (SZRI); Mr Long Wei, Deputy Director of the Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administration, State Oceanic Administration of China; Ms Chen Danhong, Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Natural Resources of China; Professor Chan Wai-yee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Developments) at CUHK; Dr Liu Shunlin, Director General of the Polar Research Institute of China; and Dr Lin Huangquan, Executive Director of SZRI and Director of CUHK’s Office for Greater Bay Area Developments
Professor Chan Wai-yee, CUHK’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Developments), delivers a keynote address at the symposium, “Partnerships for a Sustainable Future: CUHK Involvement in Advancing Polar Research and International Cooperation”.
