On August 11, Mr. Gao Deyi, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Congress, Ms. Song Yan, Vice Chairman of the Committee visited SMU to investigate the school’s participation in the work of international organizations such as the Maritime Technology Cooperation Center for Asia (MTCC Asia) and the International Maritime Lecturers Association (IMLA). Mr. Song Baoru, the Chairman of the University Council, Mr. Lu Jing, the President of SMU, Mr. Shi Xin, the Vice President, and the heads of related departments / colleges discussed with the guests. Mr. Song Baoru presided over the meeting.
Mr. Song Baoru said that SMU, as a century-old university with the characteristics of international education, has been deeply involved in the work of related international organizations in the maritime field in recent years. SMU has made certain achievements in promoting the soft power construction of the Shanghai International Shipping Center, serving the "Belt and Road" initiative, and enhancing the development of the SMU's own disciplines. SMU will gather the strength together and strive to develop MTCC Asia and IMLA, and further contribute wisdom and strength to Shanghai for supporting China’s construction of maritime power.
President Lu Jing said that SMU is now actively planning the development of the "14th Five-Year Plan" and continues to promote the construction of a high-level maritime university with global influence. Promoting the establishment of international organizations with global industry influence is one of the important contents of Shanghai's construction of a socialist modern international metropolis. MTCC Asia and IMLA are currently rare international organizations in the field of education that have successfully settled in Shanghai. We hope that under the support and guidance of the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress and the Municipal Government, MTCC Asia and IMLA will achieve more stable and rapid development.
Mr. Shi Xin introduced to the guests the development, construction effectiveness and future vision of MTCC and IMLA in detail.
Mr. Gao Deyi said that the work of the two international organizations has made positive contributions to enhancing China's maritime discourse power and is of great significance. The advantages should be fully utilized to provide direct channels and platforms for Shanghai to further participate in international affairs. At present, the Municipal People's Congress is coordinating and promoting the construction of a working mechanism for optimizing the business environment in Shanghai. The Foreign Affairs Committee is willing to work with SMU to create a better operating environment for the development of MTCC Asia and IMLA in Shanghai.
Participants discussed in-depth about specific issues such as registration of international organizations in Shanghai, network use, and entry and exit of personnel on the meeting.
