On the Afternoon of December 8, 2023, Li Weijian, a researcher from the Foreign Policy Institute of the Shanghai Institute for International Studies, went to our school's forum. He delivered a lecture titled "Positioning, Research Approaches, and Methods of Area Studies" to faculty and students. The lecture was chaired by Professor Wang Xingang, Director of the Syrian Research Center and the African Studeis Center at the School of History, with representatives from our school in attendance.
Starting with the example of "Israeli-Palestinian Conflict or Israeli-Syrian Conflict?" , Li Weijian pointed out that diplomatic consultancy work differs from general academic research and emphasizes more on practicality and problem-solving orientation. He then analyzed a series of specific cases to highlight the importance of incorporating China into any research, especially foreign studies, while also emphasizing the need to establish one's own positioning, develop research approaches, and broaden perspectives. He emphasized that academic research should be both theoretical and serve national needs. Li Weijian also shared some insights and methods for writing internal references and media articles.
During the meeting, Li Weijian engaged in discussions and exchanges with faculty and students present on issues related to country and area studies. This lecture enhanced the understanding of the nature and purpose of area studies among faculty and students, further broadening their academic horizons.
Prof. Wang Xinguang hosted the lecture
Researcher Li Weijian
Meeting Room
Group Photo