Zhao Zhongxiu, President of the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE), led a delegation to Australia from May 19 to 22, 2024. The delegation visited several Australian universities, including the University of Melbourne, Victoria University, the University of Canberra, and the Australian National University.

During the visit to the University of Melbourne, the delegation was warmly received by Michael Wesley, Deputy Vice-Chancellor International of the University. The two sides held in-depth discussions on the development of a joint research center. Li Xiaomeng, Director of the Department of International Relations at UIBE, and Mark Wang, Director of the Centre for Contemporary Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne, signed an agreement for cooperation, witnessed by the leaders and representatives from both universities.

They agreed to enhance the use of the joint research center in the future, fostering more exchange opportunities for teachers and students from both institutions, aiming for comprehensive and high-level cooperation driven by innovation.

President Zhao Zhongxiu expressed UIBE's commitment to advancing innovative forms of exchanges and cooperation with world-class universities, including the University of Melbourne, as part of its mission to develop into a world-class university with world-class disciplines. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Michael Wesley emphasized the significance of the joint research center for collaboration between the University of Melbourne and Chinese universities. He highlighted the University's intention to increase investment and internal coordination to develop the center with UIBE, explore innovative models, and establish a long-term brand.

At Victoria University, President Zhao met with Andy Hill, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University. They reviewed the accomplishments of the joint economic, trade, and policy research center and its impact in the field. They also renewed the agreement to jointly develop the center.

During the visit to the University of Canberra, the delegation held talks with Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology Janine Deakin and Pro Vice-Chancellor Chris Gartner. Discussions covered research cooperation, student exchange visits, and inter-school joint training programs.

At the Australian National University, Director of the University's International Office Jonathan Dampney talked with the delegation. They reached agreements on joint training and exchange programs for doctoral and graduate students.