China has reaffirmed its dedication to bolstering international collaboration within the global engineering sector, as demonstrated by its participation in the 2023 World Engineering Day celebrations held in Madrid, Spain, from March 2 to 4, 2023.
A delegation of engineering experts, sent by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), attended the event. They engaged in meaningful exchanges with their counterparts from around the globe, underscoring China's commitment to fostering a spirit of openness and collaboration with the international engineering community and contributing its expertise to global engineering challenges.
The World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO), supported by UNESCO, proclaimed March 4 as "World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development" in 2019. It is designated to underscore the vital role of engineers and the engineering sector in driving sustainable development.
During the event, Chinese engineering experts delivered compelling presentations. Ling Wen, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, outlined China's approach to addressing demographic challenges at a session focused on infrastructures and demographic challenges. He Jing, an observer with the WFEO Committee on Engineering and the Environment (WFEO-CEE), delved into the achievements of Asian women in advancing technological innovation in construction engineering at a session centered around the role of women engineers.
Moreover, Song Yonghua, Executive Board Member of the CAST and Director of the University of Macau, shared insights at the "International Organizations Roundtable Forum". His presentation highlighted Macau's experiences in sustainable urban development. Huang Wei, a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, represented the Federation of Engineering Institutions of Asia and the Pacific (FEIAP) at the roundtable discussion.
Gong Ke, immediate Past-President of the WFEO, highlighted the significance of the World Engineering Day activities as a vital platform for global exchange and partnership. The Chinese engineering community’s active involvement showcases China's openness and continuous quest to learn from the world's leading practices, thereby strengthening learning and collaborative ties, Gong noted.
The WFEO was founded in 1968 under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) with its headquarters in Paris. Over the past five decades, the organization has expanded its reach to encompass over 100 countries and regions worldwide. In 1981, the CAST formally joined WFEO on behalf of China, marking a pivotal moment in China's engagement with the international engineering network.
Sources: Xinhua, VOC
