Southeast University has recently received a letter of appreciation from the Chinese Consulate-General in Christchurch. The letter highly commended SEU for its support of the inaugural Antarctic Science Symposium and its efforts in promoting international scientific exchange and cooperation. Special thanks were extended to Professor Ying Qin from the School of Civil Engineering for his outstanding academic presentation at the symposium.
The China-New Zealand Antarctic Science Symposium, co-hosted by the Chinese Consulate-General in Christchurch and Wuhan University, was held on June 17, 2025, in Christchurch, New Zealand. The event brought together over 100 government representatives, researchers, and university scholars from China and New Zealand for in-depth discussions on topics including Antarctic scientific exploration, research collaboration, and sustainable development.
In her address, Ms. Ying He,Chinese Consul-General in Christchurch, emphasized Antarctica's significant impact on global climate change and the future of humanity. She reaffirmed China's commitment to a polar development strategy centered on green peace and international cooperation, expressing willingness to deepen exchanges with New Zealand to jointly advance Antarctic affairs. Mr. Duncan Sandeman, International Relations Manager at Christchurch City Council, and Mr. Chen Zhang, Deputy Director of the International Office at Wuhan University, also spoke positively about the potential for collaboration between Chinese and New Zealand universities in Antarctic research.
During the symposium, Professor Ying Qin was invited to deliver a report titled "Advances and Challenges in Modular Steel Structures—with Potential for Antarctic Deployment." His presentation provided an in-depth analysis of the structural advantages, application potential, and engineering challenges of modular steel structure systems in extreme polar environments, receiving high praise from attending experts.
The letter of appreciation from the Chinese Consulate-General in Christchurch stated: "Professor Ying Qin, a visiting scholar from your university's School of Civil Engineering, was invited as a Chinese expert representative to deliver an academic report, which received positive feedback from peers and the audience. He made significant contributions to the success of the event and demonstrated the academic excellence and professionalism of your university's visiting scholars."
This letter fully reflects Southeast University's commitment to supporting the national polar strategy and its proactive role in international scientific cooperation. It also highlights the academic strength and global influence of the School of Civil Engineering in research on structures for extreme environments. SEU's School of Civil Engineering will continue to deepen international exchanges and cooperation, address major national needs, and contribute "SEU wisdom" to the advancement of polar science and engineering technology.
Figure 1 Chinese Consulate-General in Christchurch Hosts Antarctic Science Symposium in Christchurch
Figure 2 Scene from the Inaugural Antarctic Science Symposium
Figure 3 Consul-General Ying He Delivers Address
Figure 4 Video Connection to Antarctic Qinling Station
Figure 5 Professor Ying Qin Invited to Deliver Academic Report
Figure 6 Letter of Appreciation
