EU Alumni met in Guangzhou
The EU Delegation to China welcomed over 70 alumni in Guangzhou, celebrating their ongoing contributions to EU–China academic, cultural, and professional exchange. The event gathered students, young professionals and diplomats from across Guangdong who continue to act as bridges between the two regions.
The evening opened with remarks from Mr. Michal Skrzek, Head of the Political, Press and Information Section of the EU Delegation to China, who gave an update on EU-China relations and discussed the essential role of people-to-people exchange within the EU’s four-pillar engagement approach. He emphasized the value of academic exchange programmes and their alumni in driving dialogue and understanding between both regions.
European Union, 2025
"You are the most important element in EU-China relations—you are the bridge builders between the EU and China, acting as ambassadors of the European Union in China and ambassadors of China in the European Union. In times like this, that is extremely precious." Mr. Skrzek stated.
The keynote presentation, “Bridging Continents: My Journey from Europe to China as an EU Alumni”, was delivered by Dr. Mateusz Kwiatkowski, Assistant Professor at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies. Reflecting on his academic path from Poland to Guangzhou, he highlighted how studying abroad allows young scholars to develop independence, broaden their worldview, and take full advantage of the experience through cultural engagement and networking. Drawing from anecdotes in Europe and China, he illustrated how daily interactions, from local foods to unexpected social encounters, shaped his understanding of Chinese society and enriched his personal and professional growth.
European Union, 2025
“Studying abroad is an investment. You are investing the most crucial time of your life when you are young and energetic. If all you do is attend classes and return to your dorm, you could have done that at home. Instead, travel with purpose: explore beyond the major cities, visit smaller towns to pick up local accents, and connect your journeys to your learning goals. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You’ll encounter things you love and things you don’t, but the overall experience will be enriching and balanced. Most importantly, it will build a strong foundation for your future.” Mr. Kwiatkowski suggested to the Alumni.
A panel discussion brought together Dr. Lai Suetyi, Associate Professor, Jean Monnet Chair, at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, and Dr. Kwiatkowski. Both speakers reflected on their cross-continental academic journeys: Dr. Lai from France to New Zealand before returning to China, and Dr. Kwiatkowski from Poland to Guangzhou. Their conversation explored how their experiences abroad shaped their identities and challenged them to adjusting to new environments. They reflected on how alumni can help to bridge expectations, culture and working styles.
“What fascinated me most about Europe is its concept of unity in diversity: a delicate balance between how much unity to cultivate and how much diversity to celebrate. In my classes, I often begin with something simple and relatable, like European foods: baguettes, croissants, pretzels and the students love it. Europe is naturally engaging, both entertaining and informative, which makes teaching about it enjoyable. Yet I often find there’s still so much I don’t know. That’s the beauty of it: discovering Europe together with my students, piece by piece.” Prof. Lai noted.
European Union, 2025
European Union, 2025
European Union, 2025
The evening concluded with an informal networking reception, where EU and Chinese alumni reconnected with peers and made new connections.
European Union, 2025
The “EU Alumni Homecoming” events are part of the EU Delegation to China’s public and cultural outreach activities, supported by the EU’s Foreign Policy Instruments Service (FPI).