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The leaders of the two universities signed a formal letter of intent

The University of Sussex and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE), China, have solidified a powerful new strategic alliance, marked by high-level diplomatic visits in both China and the UK.

Beijing, December 2025

The journey began with a high-level Sussex mission to UIBE’s campus in Beijing, representing a significant expansion of the University’s global academic network. This senior delegation was led by Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global and Civic Engagement), and supported by Professor Simon Thompson, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International), Dr Xiaoxiang Zhang, Associate Dean for Global and Civic Engagement at the University of Sussex Business School, and Sam Lin, Global Partnerships Manager.

This mission culminated in the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UIBE President Zhao Zhongxiu. As a "Double First-Class" university and China’s premier institution for international trade and finance, UIBE serves as a central hub for national economic policy-making. The partnership will support joint projects and exchange initiatives aimed at preparing future leaders to tackle complex global challenges through innovation and sustainability. The agreement marks a significant step forward in the Sussex global engagement strategy and reinforces its role as a leader in fostering international partnerships that drive forward business innovation and sustainability.

Sussex, February 2026

In late February, the University of Sussex was delighted to host a senior UIBE delegation, led by the Chair of the University Council, Mr. HUANG Baoyin.

The highlight of the visit was a Senior Leadership Meeting, where Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Sasha Roseneil formally welcomed the delegation to campus. The session opened with remarks from Professor Roseneil and Mr. Huang, followed by a series of presentations showcasing UIBE’s global impact and the strong support of the Chinese Embassy and UIBE alumni networks.

The visit provided an excellent opportunity for in-depth discussions on strengthening collaboration between our two institutions. Conversations focused on advancing innovative pedagogies, enhancing student support frameworks, improving graduate employability, and expanding research collaboration. A key milestone of the visit was the signing of a Letter of Intent, reaffirming our shared commitment to developing an inclusive and forward-looking partnership.

A Shared Global Vision

The rapid exchange of delegations underscores the synergy between the two institutions. President Zhao Zhongxiu welcomed the Sussex delegation as vital partners in fostering the next generation of global economic leaders, while Professor Banerjee noted that in UIBE, Sussex has found an elite partner that shares a consensus on the urgency of the digital economy.

According to Dr Xiaoxiang Zhang, this alliance ensures a direct link to one of the world's most dynamic financial hubs, promising long-term benefits for students and researchers as they navigate a digitally integrated global economy. We look forward to building on this momentum in the near future.

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