30.10.2025

IKBFU and China Foreign Affairs University Sign Cooperation Agreement

A delegation from the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University (IKBFU) paid a working visit to the China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU) in Beijing. IKBFU was represented by Daria Gerber, Director of the International Office, and Maria Litvinyuk, Director of the Center for Intercultural Communication with the Asia-Pacific Region.

The main topic of the talks was the strengthening and development of academic cooperation between the two universities. As a result, agreements were reached that will open new opportunities for students and faculty members. The first group of IKBFU students will be able to study at the CFAU for one semester as early as spring 2026. Likewise, CFAU students will have the possibility to study in Kaliningrad.

In addition, the universities agreed to promote academic mobility among faculty members. Plans include guest lectures and master classes delivered by professors and experts from both institutions. This initiative will enrich educational programs, familiarize students with cutting-edge research in the field of diplomacy, and strengthen academic ties.

"This visit marks an important step in the practical implementation of IKBFU’s internationalization strategy and in strengthening partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region, — noted Daria Gerber. — We not only agreed on specific timelines for launching student exchanges but also outlined a roadmap for joint research projects. The China Foreign Affairs University is a leading institution with unique expertise in international relations and political science. Partnering with it opens excellent prospects for our students and researchers to engage deeply with the current regional agenda".

"This visit marks an important step in the practical implementation of IKBFU’s internationalization strategy and in strengthening partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region, — noted Daria Gerber. — We not only agreed on specific timelines for launching student exchanges but also outlined a roadmap for joint research projects. The China Foreign Affairs University is a leading institution with unique expertise in international relations and political science. Partnering with it opens excellent prospects for our students and researchers to engage deeply with the current regional agenda".

For reference:

The China Foreign Affairs University is one of China’s leading and most prestigious universities, operating under the Ministry of Education of the PRC. Founded in 1949, it has historically specialized in training highly qualified professionals in international relations, political science, journalism, and foreign languages. Among its approximately 20,000 graduates, over 30 have held ministerial positions, around 600 have served as ambassadors in foreign states, and more than 1,000 have worked as counselors in Chinese embassies abroad, or as directors of government departments and agencies. This legacy has earned the university the reputation of being the “cradle of Chinese diplomats.”

Mentioned persons

Maria Litvinuk

Specialist of the Division for Internationalisation and International Partnership

Daria Gerber

Director of International Office