On March 11, 2016, the Alliance Française of Shandong holds a concert at the Shandong University in east China's Shandong Province. The photo depicts students from Shandong University alongside band members.

In the vibrant practice of educational cooperation and cultural exchanges with foreign countries, Shandong University in Ji'nan, capital of east China's Shandong Province, has played an indispensable role in fostering exchanges and collaboration with France.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. This article will delve into the origins and outcomes of educational cooperation between Shandong University and France, with a focus on presenting the achievements of the university's engagement in educational exchanges with France.

Origins of cooperation with France

Throughout its 122-year history since its establishment in 1901, Shandong University has forged cooperative relationships with over 200 universities and research institutions in 30-odd countries and regions worldwide, especially after China initiated the reform and opening-up policy in late 1978.

The collaboration between Shandong University and its French counterpart traces back to 1995, when Shandong University signed an international cooperation agreement with the Paris Diderot University, also known as Paris 7, to engage in teacher-student exchanges and joint scientific research in areas such as life sciences, mathematics and Sinology.