In an effort to broaden understanding of China’s role in the world as part of the LSA ChinaNow Theme Year, the University will host a lecture today (Nov. 12) by Zhou Wenzhong, ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the United States. He will speak about “China’s Peaceful Development and U.S.-China Relations” at 4:15 p.m. in the Rackham 4th floor Amphitheater.
In 2005 Zhou was appointed ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary for the People’s Republic of China to the United States. Previously he served as China’s ambassador to Australia, vice minister of foreign affairs, PRC general consul in San Francisco, deputy director general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Department of North America and Oceanian Affairs, and also held posts in the United Kingdom and the Caribbean.
President Mary Sue Coleman says the ambassador’s visit will provide students with a unique insight into China.
“Ambassador Zhou’s campus visit is an excellent opportunity for U-M students to further their understanding of our ties to China, as a university and a country,” Coleman says.
Kenneth Lieberthal, Arthur Thurnau Professor of Political Science and William Davidson Professor of Business Administration, who is considered a world renowned expert on China, says Zhou’s appearance is an example of the ChinaNow Theme Year in action.
“Ambassador Zhou’s visit brings one of China’s leading diplomats to the University of Michigan at a time when China’s star is rising, the Michigan economy is experiencing wrenching transition, and the University has designated 2007-08 a China Theme Year to increase understanding of China and the implications of developments there,” Lieberthal says. “The ambassador will meet and speak with students, faculty and University leaders. This is the kind of opportunity for meaningful dialogue and learning that the ChinaNow Theme Year is designed to foster.”
Zhou’s visit is sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Government Relations, the William Davidson Institute, the Alumni Association, the Association of Chinese Professors and the Center for Chinese Studies.
The lecture is free and open to the public.
During his visit to Michigan Zhou also will meet with Gov. Jennifer Granholm, Ford Motor Co. CEO Alan Mullaly and address the Detroit Economic Club.
