Australia’s Consul-General in South-West China Christopher Lim has met with USC executive members, staff and students to discuss strengthening educational partnerships between the Fraser Coast and China.

Today’s event at USC’s Fraser Coast campus focused on engagement opportunities with the Fraser Coast’s Chinese sister-city, Leshan.

Mr Lim provided an update on developments in southwest China’s economy and potential opportunities in tourism, education, agribusiness and health.

The meeting follows a visit to the region by a delegation from Leshan Normal University at the end of last year.

At the time, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to encourage close academic ties between the universities, especially in areas of common interest such as tourism, education and ecology.

The agreement includes opportunities for joint research, student and staff exchanges, and short-term or extended programs of study at each other’s institution.