Former Australian Prime Minister Mr Bob Hawke recently addressed the Asia Pacific Forum hosted by UQ on Monday (17 November).
The Forum, focused on co-operation and innovation in the Asia Pacific and was a joint initiative of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and UQ.
UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Høj said the CASS-UQ Asia Pacific Forum aimed to deepen understanding between Australia and China on bilateral, regional and international affairs, and enhance and strengthen collaborations and relations.
“With the G20 Leaders’ Summit providing a backdrop, the CASS-UQ Asia Pacific Forum brings together international leaders in government, business, and education for a scholarly exchange,” he said.
Queensland Governor Paul de Jersey opened the Forum and Mr Hawke delivered the keynote address.
Panel sessions explored the topics Economic Growth in the Asia Pacific,Innovation in Energy and the Environment, and Building a Culture of Cooperation.
“The topics offer our expert panelists an opportunity to engage and interact on these broad social, economic and policy issues that the Asia Pacific region will face in coming decades,” Professor Høj said.
“UQ, and indeed other Australian institutions, have enjoyed excellent collaborative relationships with China, especially in the areas of science, engineering and technology.
“This forum brings the social sciences into sharper focus and will act as a catalyst for discussions on mutual understanding, friendship and co-operation as a means of optimising the benefits to society from scientific progress.
“Crucially, the forum has eminent thinkers who engage with public debate and policy formation and teach and advise youth from China, Australia and scores of other nations,” Professor Høj said.
The CASS-UQ Asia Pacific Forum was held at the GHD Auditorium, Advanced Engineering Building, St Lucia.
For any enquiries about this event, please contact: Deputy Director (Global Engagement) Dr Jessica Gallagher, j.gallagher@uq.edu.au, +61 7 334 67869.
