On December 13, 2024, the “Tianjin International and Area Studies Academic Development Association” was officially launched at Tianjin University. Leaders from the Tianjin Federation of Social Science, Tianjin Municipal Education Commission, and academic representatives from local universities attended the event, which was hosted by the School of Foreign Languages at Tianjin University.

Zheng Gang, Vice President of Tianjin University, highlighted the university's achievements in interdisciplinary research and talent cultivation, including the establishment of the Institute for Global South Studies in September. He emphasized the association’s mission to address national strategic needs and explore new paths in area studies.

Yuan Shijun from the Tianjin Federation of Social Science and Yang Minghai from the Tianjin Municipal Education Commission underscored the association’s role in advancing education, fostering research, and supporting China's global governance strategy.

The event included the unveiling of the association plaque, academic presentations, and the first council meeting, which approved the association charter and outlined future plans. The association aims to strengthen collaboration, support national development priorities, and cultivate top-tier talent in area studies.

By Eva Yin