The New Port Report Series Activities designed by Xi'an Jiaotong University in Shaanxi province kicked off on Monday with Professor Kuen-chen Fu’s lecture on how ocean neighbors get along.

In his English report, Fu, dean of the Nanhai Research Institute at Xiamen University, introduced the basic concepts and terminology related to maritime territorial sovereignty and the historical origin and specific situation of the dispute between China and the surrounding countries on the sovereignty of islands and reefs, and put forward his own views on dealing with the issue of maritime sovereignty.

From the perspective of international law, Fu analyzed the disputes over oceans, such as the Diaoyu Island issue, saying that in terms of maritime claims, legal principles and human feelings need to be weighed. In addition to resolving disputes by international rules, China should also adhere to the principle of sovereignty and achieve common development and development with surrounding countries.

"The ocean was once a barrier to the mainland, but with the progress of human technology, the ocean has been more and more developed and utilized, and has become a convenient and safe route for trade and cultural exchanges. The future development of sea areas also needs to take into account environmental protection and make efforts for the sustainable development of the Earth,” Fu said.

Zhang Maizeng, Party secretary of Xi'an Jiaotong University, said the "New Port Report" series activities were the first exploration and demonstration of the connotation construction of "internationalization" of the school’s innovative port. It will publicize to the world the latest exploration and research achievements of the university in different disciplines.

Professor Fu gives his report on International Law and China's Position on Apr 29 at Xi’an Jiaotong University. Photo by Yin Chenglong.

According to Zhang, the New Port Report Series Activities start with the law series, which cover such topics as the policy of the Belt and Road, the law of the sea, the constitution, and the fight against corruption.

Party Secretary Zhang gives a speech at the lecture. Photo by Yin Chenglong.

The New Port Report Series Activities will organize English academic lectures in different disciplines. The lecturers will be mainly excellent full-time teachers in the school, with the participation of subject leaders and young reserve talents. At the same time, well-known scholars outside the school are invited to join.