On 31 October 2022, the preparation work team for the 1st International Forum for Open University Leaders invited Mr Ma Micang, director of the former Protocol Division of Department of International Cooperation and Exchange, Ministry of Education, to deliver a special report entitled “Understanding of Protocol Work from 15 Years of Foreign Affairs Experience”, with the aim of enhancing the staff’s international communication abilities and implementing the spirit of the 20^th CPC National Congress.

Faculty and staff from the forum’s preparation work team, International Department, and relevant departments of the university attended the training, with OUC Vice President Fan Xianrui presiding.

Fan Xianrui mentioned that the university should fully implement General Secretary Xi Jinping’s instruction on diplomatic work and make efforts to advance the construction of international cooperation platforms, constantly enhance staff’s ability to deal with foreign affairs work, and further strengthen cooperation and exchanges in open education in line with the deployments of the MOE. At the time the 1st International Forum for Open University Leaders is being organised, training for foreign affairs protocol is of great significance for enhancing the management of OUC personnel’s knowledge of foreign affairs protocol, guiding their practical work, and strengthening their ability to engage in foreign affairs work.

Mr Ma spoke about foreign affairs requirements from the aspects of dress code, visits, receptions, and etiquette based on his rich practical experience, emphasising the relevant taboos to be avoided in international exchanges. Mr Ma stressed that a sense of time in foreign activities, as well as the differences between Chinese and foreign protocol, should be given special care. Foreign affairs workers should memorise all the etiquette and processes. He also added that efforts should be made to establish institutions of foreign affairs.

All participants said that they found the training helpful and practical for its rich content and interesting case studies.

By Zhang Yi, OUC