From May 8th to 11th, 2024, Prof. Tu Xinquan, WTO Chairholder at UIBE, led international students from eight countries on an academic and business tour to Qingdao, Shandong Province. This visit emphasized practical learning for master's students in WTO Law and Economics from "Belt and Road" countries. The group visited key enterprises like Tsingtao Brewery Co. Ltd. and Haier Group Cooperation, as well as significant government departments, gaining insights into Qingdao's strategic role in international trade and the "Belt and Road" initiative.

On May 9th, the students visited the Qingdao International Cruise Port. Mr. Gao Bo, Executive Deputy Director and Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee, outlined the port's development plan and emphasized the importance of international talent in fostering RCEP trade cooperation and facilitating global trade exchanges. Prof. Tu Xinquan and Mr. Gao awarded the students certificates as "Goodwill Ambassadors of Qingdao International Cruise Port Area," motivating them to strengthen international exchanges and cooperation. The group also toured the port's planning exhibition hall and the historical district of Dabaodao Island, experiencing the blend of Qingdao's historical charm and modern vitality.

On May 10th, the tour continued at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Economic and Trade Demonstration Zone. The students visited the Qingdao SCO International Expo Center and the SCO Business School exhibition hall, engaging with enterprises like the Transfar (SCO) International Logistics Port and Geely Satellite. Discussions with President Zheng of the China-SCO Business School focused on joint training of international talents, short-term business research visits, and promoting multilateral economic and trade cooperation.

During the visits to Tsingtao Brewery Co. Ltd. and Haier Group Cooperation, the students were impressed by China's manufacturing prowess and innovative spirit. They appreciated the technological advancements and customer-centric philosophies of these enterprises. Aqsa from Pakistan expressed her hope to intern at Haier, envisioning shared development and prosperity with Qingdao. She highlighted how Qingdao's emphasis on innovation and trade aligns with her career aspirations.

Phemo from Botswana, the class representative of the 2023 cohort, described the trip as rich and inspiring. He noted that the visit offered a deep dive into Qingdao's economic landscape, from historical landmarks like Zhongshan Road and Zhanqiao Pier to modern developments in the SCO demonstration zone and Haier Group. Phemo emphasized the importance of understanding Qingdao's role in the "Belt and Road" initiative and how such trade frameworks are crucial for global economic integration.

This visit provided the students with valuable insights into Qingdao's strategic importance in international trade, highlighting its contributions to global economic growth and regional integration through the "Belt and Road" initiative and the SCO framework.