Confucius Institute successfully hosted the China-Türkiye Youth Sustainable Development Dialogue!

On January 19, 2026, an event titled "China-Turkey Youth Sustainable Development Dialogue" was organized in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at Boğaziçi University, the Xiuzhong Academy of Tsinghua University, and the Institute of Environmental Sciences at Boğaziçi University. Boğaziçi University Vice Rector Fatih Usluer, Director of the Center for Environmental Sciences Burak Demirel, and the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, Zhou Qianwen, participated in the meeting. More than 30 students from China and Turkey exchanged ideas on sustainability issues. The event was an important step in strengthening Boğaziçi University's goal of international academic cooperation and youth interaction.
The main theme of the event was sustainable development. The program, consisting of a "Green China" presentation, thematic activities, and roundtable sessions, focused on topics such as environmental management, social justice, education, and global governance. Thus, the youth of both countries demonstrated a sense of responsibility and cooperation towards common problems. Morning Session: “Green China” Event
In the morning, students from Tsinghua University organized a Chinese language event themed “Green China” in the Kriton Curi Hall. Maps, interactive games, and question-and-answer sessions introduced China’s work in low-carbon development, ecological protection, and sustainability. Sections such as the “Carbon Footprint Market” and the “SDG Matching Game” combined the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals with language learning, attracting great interest from Boğaziçi students.
Opening Speeches and Presentations
At the opening of the forum held in the afternoon, Burak Demirel, Director of the Institute of Environmental Sciences, greeted the participants. He introduced Boğaziçi University’s work in the field of environmental science and emphasized that collaboration among young people plays a critical role in solving global environmental problems. Then, Zhou Qianwen, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, took the floor. Stating that the Institute aims to build bridges of dialogue through the Chinese language and culture, he expressed that this event offered young people the opportunity to better understand the idea of ​​“humanity’s common future.” In the presentation section, three students from Tsinghua University gave talks titled "The Green China Journey: The Coexistence of Ecology and Development." The students described practices in China such as low-carbon policies, water resource management, ecological protection projects, and river basin rehabilitation.
Round Table Discussions
The round table discussions, organized under three different headings, were the most lively part of the event:
1. "Climate Resilient Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy"—Moderated by Tamer Atabarut. Participants discussed how climate adaptation and energy transition can be integrated into development strategies.
2. "Education, Employment, and Global Justice"—Moderated by Altay Atlı. Topics included equal opportunities in education, youth unemployment, and inclusive growth.

3. "Health and Well-being as a Universal Right"—Moderated by Cao Jie from Tsinghua University. Public health, social security, and digital inclusion were discussed. Participant Opinions
In a statement to CGTN, Boğaziçi University Vice Rector Fatih Usluer said that Chinese and Turkish youth engaged in a comprehensive exchange of ideas on climate, environment, and social issues. Vice Rector Usluer stated that such youth-focused discussions could give rise to new policy and governance ideas.
Cao Jie from Tsinghua University stated that holding the event in Turkey was linked to current diplomatic developments in relations between the two countries. He highlighted the 55th anniversary of China-Turkey diplomatic relations, emphasizing that youth dialogue has become even more important.
Zhang Mingjian, a student from Tsinghua University, also said that the theme of sustainable development created a common language between the youth of the two countries. He stated that his field trips in China facilitated his dialogue with Turkish students and called for more interaction. Conclusion
At the end of the event, the moderators summarized the discussions. Participants stated that the meeting strengthened the understanding of sustainability between the youth of the two countries and reinforced the foundation of cooperation between the two universities. Boğaziçi University Confucius Institute announced that these types of events will continue and that they will support young people in contributing to global sustainable development.