About the Forum
We are pleased to announce that the Second University Presidents Forum of the University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road is to be held in Xiamen, China, on 12 June 2026.
The Forum will be convened under the theme "Connecting the World via the Maritime Silk Road, Forging the Future with Digital Intelligence." It will bring together university leaders and senior representatives from institutions along the Maritime Silk Road to exchange views and explore collaboration in higher education, research, and innovation.
Event Date:
About the Host
Xiamen University (XMU), established in 1921 by renowned patriotic overseas Chinese leader Mr. Tan Kah Kee, is the first university founded by an overseas Chinese in the history of modern Chinese education. XMU has long been listed among China's leading universities on the national 211 Project, 985 Project and Double First-Class Initiative, which have been launched by the Chinese government to support selected universities in achieving world-class standing. XMU is commented by The Telegraph as "one of the most scenic campuses in China".
XMU has forged partnerships with 284 universities in countries and regions including the UK, the US, Japan, France, Russia, etc. It has established 14 Confucius Institutes in collaboration with universities and institutes overseas.
Forever inspired by the motto "Pursue Excellence, Strive for Perfection", XMU has been dedicated to producing high-caliber talents with integrity, thereby making great contributions to the prosperity of the country, the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the progress of humankind in general. XMU is increasingly becoming an internationally acclaimed world-class university.
Conference Venue
The Science and Arts Center spans approximately 20,000 square meters and stands as a landmark facility distinguished by its elegant architectural design and advanced event infrastructure. The building comprises five above-ground floors and one basement level. Levels 1 to 3 are dedicated to conference and event functions, while the basement level provides parking facilities.
Designed to support a wide range of academic, cultural, and professional events, the Center is equipped with state-of-the-art intelligent conference management systems, central air-conditioning, and comprehensive wired and wireless internet connectivity throughout the premises.
The Center features:
• An Auditorium with a seating capacity of 862
• A Concert Hall with a seating capacity of 566
• A Multi-function Hall accommodating up to 120 participants
• An Exhibition Hall covering 1,560 square meters
• A VIP Lounge and 11 smart meeting rooms of varying capacities and configurations
The meeting facilities offer exceptional flexibility and can be arranged in a variety of formats, including boardroom, roundtable, theatre, and classroom-style layouts. Accommodating groups ranging from 20 to 862 participants, the Center provides an ideal venue for conferences, forums, seminars, executive meetings, exhibitions, and cultural performances.
About Xiamen City
Xiamen is a vibrant coastal city in southeastern China and one of the country's earliest Special Economic Zones. Located on the southeast coast of Fujian Province and facing Taiwan across the Taiwan Strait, Xiamen serves as an important gateway for international exchange and cooperation.
Over the past four decades, Xiamen has developed into a modern and innovative city with strengths in advanced manufacturing, the digital economy, port logistics, and cultural industries. The city is also recognized for its open business environment, strong innovation capacity, and high quality of life.
Renowned for its beautiful coastline, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage, Xiamen is widely regarded as one of China’s most livable cities. Home to Xiamen University and other leading institutions, the city plays an active role in education, research, and international academic exchange.
Places to Visit in Xiamen
Gulangyu Island
Gulangyu Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Xiamen's most iconic attractions. Located just a short ferry ride from downtown Xiamen, the pedestrian-only island is known for its peaceful atmosphere, historic architecture, and scenic coastal views. Blending Chinese and Western cultural influences, Gulangyu offers visitors a unique glimpse into Xiamen's rich history and cultural heritage.
Nanputuo Temple
Nanputuo Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in southern China, with a history dating back more than 1,000 years. Located at the foot of Wulaofeng Mountain and adjacent to Xiamen University, the temple is renowned for its traditional architecture, tranquil atmosphere, and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the temple grounds, admire Buddhist culture, and hike up the nearby mountain for panoramic views of Xiamen.
Xiamen Botanical Garden
Xiamen Botanical Garden is one of the city's most popular natural attractions, featuring a rich collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Nestled among lush hills near the city center, the garden is known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse plant species, and unique attractions such as the Rainforest World and Cactus Garden. It offers visitors a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to experience Xiamen’s natural beauty.
Xiamen Mountain-to-Sea Trail
The Xiamen Mountain-to-Sea Trail is a scenic urban walkway that connects the city's mountains, parks, and coastal areas. Offering panoramic views of the skyline, lush greenery, and the sea, the trail provides an excellent way to experience Xiamen's unique blend of nature and urban development. It is a popular destination for walking, jogging, and sightseeing.
Contact Us
Office of the Secretariat
University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road
8th Floor, Main Building,Xiamen University
422 South Siming Road, 361005 Xiamen, China
Tel:+86-592-2188331
Fax:+86-592-2180240
Email: ucmsr@xmu.edu.cn
https://ucmsr.xmu.edu.cn/
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