The Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen reports the visit of the 37 (thirty seven) undergraduate/postgraduate students from Xiamen University’s Nanyang (Southeast Asian) Institute under its International Relations program led by Professor Fang Hao at the Post’s Bulwagang Bayan/Heroes Hall on 03 November 2016. The visit cum briefing forms part of the Institute’s International Relations program on diplomacy.

Consul General Julius Caesar A. Flores briefed the students on the many facets of the Consulate General’s work covering political, economic, public and cultural diplomacy thrusts. He also underscored the deep historical, ethnic and cultural links between the Philippines and Fujian Province stating that majority of overseas Chinese in the Philippines traces their ancestral roots in Fujian Province as exemplified by Dr. Jose Rizal’s ancestry and the “taipans” who are stalwarts of the Philippine economy like Mr. Henry Sy, Mr. John Gokongwei and Mr. Lucio Tan.

Furthermore, Consul General Flores encouraged the students to further enhance their knowledge of international relations in order to build a strong foundation when pursuing diplomatic studies. To further promote the Philippines and its products, the students were also given some Philippine products and tourism brochures.

Consul General Flores commended Xiamen University in undertaking this activity which is an excellent vehicle for people-to-people contacts that promotes better understanding and friendship between the Philippines and China.

Nanyang (Southeast Asian) Institute is Consulate General’s valuable partner in pursuing cultural and public diplomacy thrusts including Consulate General’s initiative, “Xiamen University Road Tour 2016”, conducted in August 2016. END