The Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Cyprus and the School of Fine Arts and Archaeology at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Friday, September 20, aimed at fostering collaboration in education, research, and innovation.

According to a press release from the University of Cyprus, the Memorandum was signed by the Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, Associate Professor Petros Papapolyviou, on behalf of the University of Cyprus, and by the Dean of the School of Fine Arts and Archaeology, Professor Chen Hong, on behalf of Zhejiang University.

The agreement outlines plans for joint research initiatives, academic staff exchanges for teaching and research, and student exchanges as part of their academic programs.

In addition, Zhejiang University, as part of its effort to strengthen ties with the University of Cyprus, has donated a series of books titled The Complete Works of Paintings of the Qing Dynasty from The Complete Works of Ancient Chinese Paintings Series, a significant collection of ancient Chinese paintings.

During the signing ceremony, the Vice Chancellor for International Relations, Finance, and Administration at the University of Cyprus, Professor Ioannis Giapintzakis, expressed confidence that the collaboration between the two faculties would positively contribute to achieving their shared goals. He also anticipated that this partnership would pave the way for cooperation between other faculties at both institutions.

Vice Chairman of Zhejiang University Council, Zhu Shiqiang, echoed these sentiments, noting that both universities hold high rankings nationally and aspire to further develop their capabilities in education and research through this partnership. He emphasized the importance of international collaboration in expanding the horizons of both countries, and highlighted the Qing Dynasty book collection as one of the most admired and significant in China’s history.