Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker Visits Tongji University in Shanghai
Scientific cooperation between countries can connect generations and retain its importance over decades. When historical traditions of engineering education meet modern technologies, new opportunities emerge for joint research and innovation.
On November 4, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker visited Tongji University in Shanghai, where he attended an event focused on advancing scientific and technological cooperation between China and Austria.
The visit took place ahead of the opening of the ninth China International Import Expo, or CIIE. Stocker is on an official visit to China at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Addressing representatives of Tongji University, the Austrian chancellor emphasized the importance of joint scientific research and cooperation in higher education.
He said Austria and China would build the future together, bringing mutual benefits to both countries.
According to Stocker, achieving this goal requires courage, confidence and long-term commitment. He also described Austria as a trustworthy partner for China in opening a new chapter of bilateral cooperation.
A panel discussion brought together representatives of both countries to explore the future of science and engineering.
Participants discussed joint research, student mobility and the growing role of artificial intelligence in engineering education. The event also highlighted the historical foundations of bilateral cooperation.
Wan Gang, honorary president of the China Association for Science and Technology, noted that 2026 marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Austria.
The year also marks a century since Austrian engineer Hans List began teaching at Tongji University. In 1926, List contributed to the training of China's first generation of specialists in internal combustion engines.
One hundred years later, his family donated historical archives and a statue of the engineer to the university. The event also featured a signing ceremony between Tongji University and AVL List GmbH, the Austrian company founded by Hans List.
The company is a major international provider of engineering, simulation and testing technologies for the automotive industry.
As reported by SSTV+, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker's visit to Tongji University highlighted the commitment of China and Austria to strengthening scientific and educational cooperation, building on a century of engineering exchanges and exploring new opportunities in advanced technologies.
