ITS, Shanghai Institute of Tourism sign cooperation agreement to establish a culture exchange centre

The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) and the Shanghai Institute of Tourism (SIT) are pleased to announce a groundbreaking agreement to establish the "China-Europe Tourism and Food Culture Exchange Centre." This five-year initiative, commencing in 2024, aims to foster cultural exchange, educational collaboration, and research between China and Europe, with a particular focus on tourism and food education.

Under the agreement, ITS and SIT will collaborate to promote cross-cultural understanding, facilitate training programmes, and engage in cooperative research related to Chinese and European tourism and culinary practices. The Exchange Centre will be based at the Institute of Tourism Studies in Malta, serving as a hub for short-term exchange programmes, including Chinese language and cuisine training.

Prof Hongmei Zhang, Vice President of SIT stated “We believe that the cooperation between the two sides can provide more opportunities for each other's students. While getting familiar with their respective countries and cultures, students can plan their careers with a more international perspective.”

Both institutions will contribute to the Centre's operations, with SIT dispatching teachers and students to lead cultural activities, and ITS providing logistical support and facilities. The Centre's programmes will emphasise public welfare, strengthening educational ties under the framework of China’s ‘Belt and Road’ Initiative.

"This agreement represents a significant milestone in Malta's continued efforts to bridge educational and cultural exchanges between Malta and China. By blending tourism and education, we are creating a foundation for mutual understanding and collaboration that will benefit not just our students but the hospitality industry in a holistic way. I am confident this initiative will strengthen Malta's role in global tourism education and advocate deeper ties with our international partners," outlined Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo.