Budapest, March 4-5, 2025 – A delegation of students from the International Relations School of Mathias Corvinus Collegium (MCC), led by Dr. Csaba Moldicz, visited the Chinese Embassy in Hungary and the Bank of China (Central and Eastern Europe) Limited. The visit aimed to deepen their understanding of Chinese foreign policy and financial systems while fostering dialogue and cooperation between the two sides.

Engagement at the Chinese Embassy: Exploring Multilateral Cooperation

On March 4, MCC students were warmly welcomed at the Chinese Embassy in Hungary by Minister-Counselor Yang Chao. The session, moderated by Wei Ruopeng, Director of the Political Section, featured four young diplomats from the political, economic, cultural, and consular protection departments. They provided insightful presentations on topics such as multilateralism, China’s green economic transition, Sino-Hungarian cultural exchanges, and policies to facilitate cross-border mobility between the two countries.

During the interactive discussion, MCC students actively engaged with the diplomats, sharing their perspectives on the covered topics. Additionally, they had the opportunity to experience Chinese tea culture, tasting authentic Chinese tea and conversing directly with 17 embassy diplomats, further deepening their understanding of Chinese diplomacy and cultural heritage.

Photo source: Official WeChat account of the Chinese Embassy in Hungary

Visit to Bank of China (CEE) Ltd: Insights into Financial Cooperation

On March 5, the MCC delegation visited the Bank of China (Central and Eastern Europe) Limited, where they were warmly received by Zhao Lianmeng, General Manager of the Financial Department. Deputy General Manager Tan Miao delivered an in-depth presentation on the bank’s operations in Hungary and the broader Central and Eastern European region, sharing insights into its international development strategy.

During the discussion, students explored topics related to international finance, banking operations, and economic cooperation. The discussions provided them with a clearer understanding of how the Bank of China fosters financial collaboration in the CEE region and supports economic development initiatives.

Photo source: Bank of China (Central and Eastern Europe) Limited

Cultural Immersion and Key Takeaways

Beyond the academic and professional exchanges, the visit also served as a cultural learning experience. Students had the chance to enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine, including Peking duck, and learned to use chopsticks, gaining firsthand exposure to Chinese dining customs.

This visit offered MCC students a comprehensive insight into China-Hungary relations and financial cooperation between China and CEE countries. By combining theoretical knowledge with real-world engagement, the experience broadened their international perspectives and laid the foundation for future academic and practical collaborations between Hungary and China.