Brussels, November 30th, 2024
From November 21–29, 2024, the Europe-Asia Center, in collaboration with Euro Asia Schengen International Group, successfully co-organized a specialized study trip for the Henan Provincial Committee Executive Leadership Academy.
This multi-day program brought together 25 high-ranking officials and business organisations of the province to explore Luxembourg’s economic strategy, engage with European experts, and strengthen ties between China and the EU. The program served as a unique platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and fostering collaboration in areas such as finance, logistics, digitalization, sustainability, and cultural diplomacy.
Highlights of the Program
✅ Opening Session and Economic Insights
The opening session featured addresses by Na Shi-Bic, Senior International Affairs Advisor of the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, H.E. Hua Ning, Chinese Ambassador to Luxembourg, and Mr. Jonathan Schwestka, Deputy Director for Europe of the Europe-Asia Center. The three speakers highlighted the importance of fostering dialogue and mutual understanding between Europe and China, and expressed hope that this study tour would only be the beginning of always more numerous opportunities for exchange.
✅ In-Depth Training and Industry Insights
Throughout the week, participants attended tailored sessions led by leading organizations, including EY Luxembourg, PwC Luxembourg, Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (BIL), Taiping Insurance and Cluster for Logistics Luxembourg (C4L). Key topics covered included:
EU trade policies and investment strategies for Chinese enterprises.
Multimodal transport innovations under the Zhengzhou-Luxembourg "Air Silk Road" Initiative.
Sustainable finance and green bond issuance at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.
✅ Field Visits to Key Institutions
The program featured visits to prominent organizations such as Cargolux Airlines, Bank of China Luxembourg, and CFL Multimodal, offering firsthand insights into Luxembourg’s logistics, finance, and transport sectors.
✅ Cultural and Diplomatic Exchange
Participants explored Schengen Village, the birthplace of the Schengen Agreement, and visited the Luxembourg National Museum of History and Art, reflecting on the role of cultural heritage in fostering international understanding.
Strengthening EU-China Collaboration
The delegation’s engagements with local institutions underscored Luxembourg’s attractiveness as a gateway for Chinese investment in Europe. Discussions highlighted opportunities for partnership in logistics, financial services, and sustainable development, aligning with both regional and global goals.
This study trip exemplifies the Europe-Asia Center’s commitment to building bridges between Europe and Asia through education, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation.
For press enquiries:
Jonathan Schwestka, Deputy Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center