A delegation led by Bristol Mayor Henry Michallat visited Guangzhou to commemorate the 25th anniversary of sister-city relations and promote practical cooperation in education, culture and trade from March 22–26.
During the visit, a series of cooperation agreements were reached, highlighting education as a key driver of bilateral engagement. At the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), the university signed a student exchange agreement and a strategic partnership agreement with the University of Bristol. The two sides also jointly launched the "Guangzhou–Bristol Young Envoys Program," marking a new stage in institutional collaboration.
Presidents of the two universities shake hands after signing a strategic cooperation agreement, marking a new chapter in academic collaboration. [Photo/WeChat account: GZWS411665430]
Officials noted that the partnership aligns with the China-UK Education Cooperation Action Plan (2026–2030) and will further strengthen exchanges in talent cultivation, scientific research and academic innovation. Both universities will deepen collaboration in interdisciplinary studies and jointly address global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development, while expanding faculty and student exchanges. The University of Bristol has also initiated joint research funding programs, including projects in artificial intelligence.
Michallat expressed appreciation for Guangzhou's hospitality during his first visit to the city and to China. He said the two cities have developed close ties since establishing sister-city relations in 2001, with fruitful cooperation in culture, education, commerce and people-to-people exchanges. He also highlighted the positive role of cultural exchanges in enhancing mutual understanding between the two peoples.
Bristol Mayor Henry Michallat delivers a keynote speech. [Photo/WeChat account: GZWS411665430]
The delegation visited a local primary school, where they observed innovative education practices and interacted with students. Michallat commended the students' creativity and vitality, emphasizing that youth exchanges will play a vital role in the future development of bilateral relations.
The "Guangzhou–Bristol Young Envoys Program," as part of Guangzhou's international youth exchange initiatives, is expected to further promote mutual understanding and inject new momentum into the sustained development of sister-city relations.
