Amid global geopolitical uncertainties, opening-up in education is not merely about academic exchanges among nations and cultures, but is a strategic imperative to bolster high-quality economic development and build a community with a shared future for humanity, Zhang Donggang, Party secretary of Renmin University of China, said.

Zhang said that by increasingly choosing to "study in China", "shop in China" and "travel in China", international students are casting a strong vote of confidence for the country's economic resilience, vibrant innovation and vast market opportunities.

In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Zhang highlighted how international educational cooperation serves as a vital bridge for mutual understanding, with Renmin University of China strategically deepening such ties to cultivate global talent and build enduring cross-cultural trust.

"The flow of international students has always been a barometer of a country's development prospects," he said, adding that during their stay, these students immerse themselves in more than just a profound academic atmosphere. They experience China's high-quality development firsthand by actively participating in a dynamic, convenient and diverse consumer market, and witness the country's magnificent landscapes and rich historical heritage, he said.

"When these young people, who truly understand and appreciate China, return to their home countries, they will become the most persuasive communicators and collaborators in China's international economic network," Zhang noted, stressing that all students serve as friendly envoys, deepening mutually beneficial cultural, economic and trade cooperation, and underscoring China's role as a reliable and predictable partner for global growth.

To meet the demands of high-quality economic development and better equip these future global envoys, Renmin University of China is actively reshaping its international cooperation network to cultivate innovative talent with global competence. A flagship initiative of this endeavor is the ACE Triple Degree Program in Business, which was jointly launched by Renmin University of China, Luiss University in Italy and George Washington University in the United States.

Currently, the program has 132 enrolled students, aged between 18 and 22, of whom 77 come from Italy and the US. Each year, the three universities select a cohort of students to study together in a single class. After completing their first year of foundational studies at their respective home universities, the students spend the next three years sequentially studying in Rome, Beijing and Washington, DC.

"This program is more than just a mutual recognition of credits. It is a deep integration of educational philosophies, cultural perspectives and governance wisdom," said Zhang. By immersing themselves in the business practices and market rules of Europe, China and the US, students develop keen insights into complex global business dynamics.

Upon graduation, they will receive bachelor's degrees from all three prestigious institutions. As the first batch prepares to graduate in the summer of 2026, the program stands as a successful example of cross-cultural education, preparing future global business leaders who can bridge the economies of China, Europe and the US.

In the face of anti-globalization sentiments in some parts of the world, Zhang emphasized the importance of Chinese universities remaining steadfast and acting as "an anchor of stability, a source of innovation and a bridge of trust".

"Closed doors offer no way out; only openness leads to the future," he said, adding that Renmin University of China is committed to expanding its global network and providing a "Chinese solution" to global education governance that advocates mutual respect, equal dialogue and win-win cooperation.

Through immersive learning and living experiences, international students can explore cultural landmarks such as the Beijing Central Axis and participate in major economic platforms like the China International Import Expo, gaining a comprehensive understanding of a real, dynamic China.

Ultimately, cross-cultural education establishes the deepest and most enduring foundation for international relations. "When young people of different nationalities and beliefs study and live together, the genuine friendships they build become the most solid social foundation for state-to-state relations, ensuring that economic and trade cooperation remains warm and resilient," Zhang said.