Chinese Consulate General Chen Li in New York Visits Kean University to Deepen Sino-U.S. Cultural and Educational Exchanges

On December 16 (EST), the Chinese Consulate General Chen Li in New York visited Kean University to engage in in-depth discussions with President Lamont Repollet, Ed.D., and senior university officials about strengthening Sino-U.S. cultural exchanges and promoting more opportunities for American students to study in China. The event was attended by Counselor Yu Yougen, who oversees educational affairs at the Chinese Consulate, Consul Qin Qilun, Kean University Senior Vice President Felice Vazquez, and other distinguished guests. This visit was part of efforts to implement the spirit of President Xi Jinping’s reply letter to President Repollet in June, aiming to elevate Sino-U.S. educational cooperation to new heights.

During the visit, Consulate General Chen Li and President Repollet watched a video showcasing the experiences of Kean University students participating in exchange programs at Wenzhou-Kean University, highlighting their involvement in cultural activities and classroom learning. Both sides praised the success of existing Sino-U.S. academic exchanges, especially short-term study tours and long-term exchange programs that have proven effective in promoting youth engagement. They agreed to expand these programs and attract more student participants.  Repollet and Chen also discussed how to best implement the directives in President Xi Jinping’s letter to further deepen Sino-U.S. educational cooperation. Chen expressed his admiration for the beautiful campus of Wenzhou-Kean University, calling it a model of international educational collaboration, and expressed his desire to visit the campus in the future.

Later, during a luncheon with Wenzhou-Kean University exchange students, Chen warmly inquired about their studies and daily lives, encouraging them to serve as bridges for Sino-U.S. exchanges and actively demonstrate the dynamic and vibrant spirit of Chinese youth to Americans. The event was filled with warmth, and Chen also interacted with Kean University students who had participated in exchange programs at Wenzhou-Kean University. As a token of appreciation, he presented them with exquisite gifts featuring Chinese elements.

In October this year, Consul General Chen Li arrived in New York to take up his new duties. This was his first visit to Kean University since taking office. Chen Li, a native of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, expressed his strong support for continued and deeper collaboration between Kean University and Wenzhou-Kean University.