Prof. Xiaobo Cong, a faculty member of IRISE gave lectures at Changchun Normal University and Northeast Normal University, China

Prof. Xiaobo Cong, a faculty member of IRISE was invited by two universities in China and conducted lectures on the topic “Current Status and Challenges of Japan-China Exchange.” She spoke about the thoughts and practices of Soka University Founder, Daisaku Ikeda, regarding exchanges between Japan and China. Approximately 100 students, faculty, and staff participated from both universities in total.

September 6, 2024: “Area Studies Lecture” co-hosted by the Institute of Foreign Studies and Daisaku Ikeda Culture Research Institute, Changchun Normal University
September 9, 2024: “Exploring Principles and Discussing the Way” for the 43rd Political and Legal Lecture Meet organized by the School of Politics and Law, Northeast Normal University 

In the lectures at the two universities, Prof. Cong analyzed China-Japan relations from various perspectives, emphasizing that future generations must approach the complexities and fragility of these relations with an open mind, setting aside personal biases. She urged them to draw on historical lessons to foster human interaction and contribute to a new era of peace and dialogue. She also mentioned that Mr. Ikeda, who believed that China was Japan's greatest benefactor and that no other country in the world could be as close, dedicated his life to promoting cultural exchange as the essence of bilateral relations. While issues have arisen in the long history of China-Japan relations, we can gain valuable insights by learning from the wisdom and exemplary actions of Zhou Enlai and Daisaku Ikeda in fostering China-Japan exchange.

The Q&A session led to meaningful discussions between faculty, staff, and students about the future of China-Japan relations.

Based on the same theme, Prof. Cong delivered lectures at various institutions, including the Institute of Oriental Studies, Faculty of Japanese Language and Culture, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies in January this year, South China Institute for Business, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies in December last year, School of Foreign Languages, Southeast University in August, and School of Japanese Studies at Tianjin Foreign Studies University in November.