On October 14, a delegation from Ecuador’s Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil, led by university President Walter Vicent Mera Ortiz, visited China University of Petroleum (CUP) to strengthen ties and explore new areas of collaboration. The 14-member delegation was welcomed by CUP President Jin Yan, who introduced the university's recent developments and plans for deeper engagement with global partners. CUP Vice President Zhang Guangqing, along with representatives from CUP’s International Cooperation and Exchange Office, International Education College, Academic Affairs Office, and Science and Technology Office, joined the discussions.

President Jin expressed CUP’s commitment to expanding joint efforts with the Ecuadorian university, particularly in student exchange programs, Chinese language studies, dual-degree programs, and scientific research initiatives.

Vice President Zhang warmly welcomed the delegation, highlighting the strong foundation built through years of collaboration between the two institutions. He emphasized CUP’s enthusiasm for expanding their partnership in ways that would leverage each institution’s strengths for mutual benefit.

President Walter Vicent Mera Ortiz thanked CUP for its longstanding friendship and support, voicing hopes for deeper cooperation in talent development, academic exchange, and scientific research. He also sought CUP’s insights on developing new and renewable energy programs, an area of keen interest for both universities.

During the meeting, representatives discussed prospective areas of collaboration, including summer camps in China for Ecuadorian students and expanded international Chinese language education programs. Both sides reached an initial agreement on these projects, with plans to explore additional joint initiatives.

As part of the visit, Liang Zhongyi, an Ecuadorian-Chinese student currently studying at CUP, shared his experiences since joining CUP, expressing appreciation for the university’s support of international students.

The delegation wrapped up their visit with a tour of the CUP History Museum and the scenic Mengxi Garden.

Founded in 1962, the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil is one of Ecuador’s leading non-profit private institutions and has produced numerous influential leaders, including two of the country’s presidents. With over 14,000 students, the university offers a range of degree programs in fields such as arts and humanities, business, social sciences, language and culture, health sciences, engineering, and technology.