On March 30^th, SUSTech had the privilege of welcoming Mr Fernando Lugris, ambassador of Uruguay on a friendly visit to the campus. President Chen Shiyi greeted the ambassador and his entourage, and both parties reiterated their strong commitment to building ties between Uruguay’s educational institutions and SUSTech. The ambassador was also introduced to our professors and students.

During the talks Mr Lugris stated that Uruguay was keen to build strong relationships with China, presented his country’s economic and social development projects, educational resources, and desire to cooperate with SUSTech. Both sides agreed that building links between Uruguay’s secondary and higher education institutions and SUSTech would be mutually beneficial, strengthening exchanges and sharing resources, and would greatly contribute to the two countries’ friendly relationship.

Mr Lugris later went on to hold discussions with a group of around 100 students and professors. With a healthy dose of humour, the ambassador gave a brief introduction of his country’s economy, diplomacy, history, geography and presented various key figures on the topic.

Professor Xia Zhihong, Dean of the Mathematics Department and staff members of the Global Engagement Department were also present to accompany the ambassador on his tour in what was a great and productive visit.

Uruguay is the second smallest country in size in South America, however it is one of the most developed and stable economies in the region. In 2013 the British magazine The Economist named Uruguay “country of the year” for it’s various progressive and innovative policies.

Edited by: Jeremy Welburn. Images from: Global Engagement Department