China: Support for Jing Forum for International Networking Between Students Who Are the Next Generation

The Jing Forum Forum of the student exchange project between Peking University and the University of Tokyo took place at the Matsushita Memorial Hall in Beijing on February 18. Chu Xiaobo, Professor of the School of International Relations, Peking University, together with 38 students from both universities were warmly welcomed by Executive Vice President Homma, Group Regional Head for China & Northeast Asia, and Director Xu of the Government Affairs and External Relations Sector of PEX China & Northeast Asia Company (CNA).

This program has been held each year since 2005 by the Office of International Relations of Peking University. The project was established independently by students of the top centers of learning of China and Japan as a key means of promoting networking between students of Peking University and the University of Tokyo. The students engage in discussions and tours for one week each in Beijing and Tokyo.

Xu began with a message of welcome and stated that "Gaining deeper insights into each country's culture, history, and traditions will promote cooperation and networking in academic, scientific, and technological fields and serve to inspire innovation."

Homma gave a keynote speech on the theme of building positive links between Japan and China, stating his deep personal ties to China, his experiences of living and working in this country, and the business activities of Panasonic in China. He also shared his expectations toward the students. After the speech he took questions from the students, giving careful thought to answer each one. The students gained a deeper understanding of the business of the Panasonic Group in China and an awareness of the importance of exchange and cooperation between both countries. The students also discussed the three topics of ethics in science and technology and an information-based society, population structures, and conflict and understanding in identity awareness. They then presented the results of their discussions.

Panasonic Group companies in China have for many long years engaged in corporate citizenship activities to support the fostering of youth who will help the development of their country. They will continue to contribute to creating a better future by contributing to the development of future generations and supporting activities to deepen mutual understanding between both Japan and China based on the Panasonic Group's philosophy of "People before products."