On October 25, Harbin Engineering University (HEU) convened a symposium on Frontier Interdisciplinary Research in Area Studies and Chinese Modernization, along with the inaugural meeting for the Frontier Interdisciplinary Research Center for Area Studies. The meeting was attended by YAO Zhen, Deputy Party Secretary of HEU; FENG Yanping, Director of the Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences; and YANG Yuxin, Chief Engineer of the Heilongjiang Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology.

YAO Zhen stated that since area studies have been designated as a primary discipline, HEU has proactively established interdisciplinary research teams across various colleges and fields. The university is exploring new paths for interdisciplinary studies and promoting advancements in China’s area studies. Moving forward, HEU aims to further develop integrated pathways for disciplines, creating a unique academic and discourse system that combines area studies with Chinese modernization. This initiative will enhance HEU’s reputation in area studies research.

ZHAI Kun, Deputy Director of Peking University’s Institute of Area Studies and convener of the Area Studies Discipline Evaluation Group of the State Council’s Academic Degrees Committee, participated online and delivered a speech. He emphasized that the current global situation requires a more comprehensive understanding of the external world, urging deeper research in area studies. ZHAI expressed hope that the Center for Frontier Interdisciplinary Research in Area Studies will capitalize on its strengths to become a high-end strategic platform that leads academic innovation, supports discipline construction, cultivates innovative talent, and serves national strategies.

YANG Yuxin highlighted that Heilongjiang Province is a vital region for the convergence of diverse cultures, offering valuable resources and unique opportunities for area studies. By continuously innovating research mechanisms and actively functioning as a think tank, the province can generate high-quality research outcomes that provide essential intellectual support for its modernization efforts.

YAO Zhen and FENG Yanping jointly inaugurated the Frontier Interdisciplinary Research Center for Area Studies.

During the meeting, the School of Foreign Languages signed agreements with the Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences and Peking University’s Institute of Area Studies to collaborate on academic exchanges, resource sharing, and the development of research platforms.