The Max S. Baucus Institute launched a two-week exchange program on May 18 in collaboration with the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF), bringing 20 students to China to explore the country’s political, economic, technological, and cultural landscape. The students hail from Montana Technological University, Montana State University, and the University of Montana.
The students engaged in a live dialogue in Beijing with former U.S. Ambassador Max Baucus and former Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai, moderated by CUSEF President James Chau.
The delegation also visited Baidu, Xiaomi and Lenovo, three Chinese technology giants, as well as Tsinghua University’s Schwarzman College and Xinya College, and Peking University’s Yenching Academy. At Baidu, Robin Li, Chairman and CEO, welcomed the students and shared his views on how China's technological innovations are shaping global markets.
Additionally, the students had the opportunity to hear from American officials during their visit to the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, where they met with U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue. The experience offered a broader view of the bilateral relationship and highlighted the importance of engagement from both countries.
Following their time in Beijing, the delegation arrived in Tangshan on May 24. Over the course of four days, the students visited Kailuan National Mine Park, gaining deeper insights into China's mining history and technological advancements. They also explored Xinglongshan Mountain Nature Reserve, where they experienced traditional Chinese culture by trying on Hanfu and Manchu attire. Additionally, they visited Tangshan Industry Vocational Technology College to learn about the history of China's high-speed railway.
The delegation then traveled to Chengdu, where they participated in a series of immersive activities. Their itinerary included visits to Jinsha Museum, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project—an engineering marvel that has sustained Sichuan’s agricultural prosperity for centuries.
“At CUSEF, we believe in the value of academic exchange in a globalized world. And through our partnerships with both Chinese and American institutions, such as the Baucus Institute, we’re creating space for students to connect with leaders in both countries, and encouraging dialogue, mutual understanding, and lasting connections that can shape the future of the bilateral relationship,” said Mr. Chau.
The students engage in a live dialogue in Beijing with former U.S. Ambassador Max Baucus and former Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai, moderated by CUSEF President James Chau.
The students visit to the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, where they meet with U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue.
Robin Li, Chairman and CEO of Baidu, shares his views on how China's technological innovations are shaping global markets.
The student delegation visits Xiaomi to gain insight into the development of China's electric vehicle industry.
Students visit Lenovo to learn about the development of China's tech industry.
Students visit Peking University's Yenching Academy to engage in a roundtable discussion with fellow students.
Students explore Xinglongshan Mountain Nature Reserve in Tangshan, experiencing traditional Chinese culture by trying on Hanfu or Manchu attire.
Students visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to learn about conservation efforts and observe giant pandas up close.