On June 26, 2014, the Australian Consulate-General in Shenyang, together with Liaoning University, co-hosted the 25th anniversary celebration of Asia-Australia Business College (AABC). Australian Ambassador to China, Scott Dewar, and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Victoria University, Monty Singh, traveled to Shenyang specifically to attend the event. The Consul-General of the Australian Consulate-General in Shenyang, Medina Hajdarevic, presided over the ceremony.
Ambassador Scott Dewar met with Huo Chunhui, Member of the Standing Committee of CPC Committee and Vice President of Liaoning University, and Monty Singh, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Victoria University, and held discussions. During the meeting, Ambassador Dewar gained detailed insights into the 25-year history of AABC and extended congratulations to Liaoning University and Victoria University. He expressed appreciation for the fruitful achievements of both universities, including their development scale, talent cultivation, international influence, and contributions to promoting cultural and academic exchanges between the two countries.
Ambassador Dewar noted that during Prime Minister Li Qiang's recent visit to Australia this month, he witnessed the signing of five agreements between China and Australia, including one in the education and research area, which holds significant importance for education cooperation. He hoped that both universities could take this opportunity to deepen their collaboration, navigate challenges, and achieve greater success together.
In his speech, Vice President Huo Chunhui reviewed the founding history of AABC and outlined its educational philosophy, teaching methods, scientific research, and contributions to ‘Double First-Class’ disciplines and social development. The success of the college is the result of the collective efforts of AABC people over the years, and a testament to the close cooperation between Liaoning University and Victoria University. It also stands as a symbol of successful diplomatic, economic, and educational cooperation between China and Australia.
In his speech, Vice President Monty Singh of Victoria University remarked that AABC serves as a model for international collaboration. The 25-year partnership between the two universities has witnessed the birth, growth, and progress of AABC, laying a solid foundation for cooperation. He expressed hopes for continued efforts in the future to further enhance this legacy of success.
Gao Zijian, an excellent alumnus of AABC, delivered a speech as a representative of the alumni. He recounted his learning experience at the college, expressed gratitude for the education he received, and pledged to continue upholding the unique culture of AABC. He emphasized the importance of staying true to the original aspiration and courageously shouldering responsibilities going forward.
Director Ma Shuang of the International Exchanges Department, Dean Zhao Deqi of AABC, Deputy Dean Xie Mingyi of AABC, George Yue, the Transnational Education Program Manager of VU, Ian Luo, Regional Recruitment Manager of VU, and other relevant personnel attended the meeting with the ambassador. They were joined by leaders from Liaoning Provincial People’s Association for Friendship With Foreign Countries, Shenyang Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, as well as alumni representatives and current students of AABC at the event.
