Foreign experts visit the Xingrui Agricultural Science and Technology Park. Mr. Michael Crook (first from the right) explains the details of ecological agriculture.
(PHOTO: The Department of Science and Technology Talent and Popularization of MOST)

By Staff Reporters

Foreign experts have long played an important role in China, contributing their passion, expertise and knowledge to help the country make significant advancements in many fields. The Chinese government and people value foreign expert's contributions.

From March 29 to March 31, the Department of Science and Technology Talent and Popularization of MOST organized a series of themed activities in Baoding, Hebei province, for senior foreign experts.

Foreign experts who participated in the activities were able to appreciate and experience the charm of China. A local cultural tour was organized to help experts comprehend Baoding's history, culture, and traditional customs. In addition, an ecological agriculture experience activity was held in Xingrui Agricultural Science and Technology Park to assist foreign experts in deciphering ecological agriculture, soilless cultivation, and other agricultural technologies.

One of the trip's highlights was the unveiling of the Dr. Shafick George Hatem memorial statue at the Medical Science Center of Hebei University in Baoding, formerly known as the Hebei Medical College for Workers.

Mr. Zhou Youma (first from the right) takes photo with the memorial statue of Dr. Shafick George Hatem.
(PHOTO: The Department of Science and Technology Talent and Popularization of MOST)

China has officially eradicated Leprosy or Hansen's disease thanks partly to the efforts of an American physician, Shafick George Hatem, who became the first foreign expert to obtain Chinese citizenship.

From 1983 to 1988, Dr. Hatem served as honorary president of the medical college. Dr. Hatem's son, Zhou Youma, delivered a moving eulogy at the unveiling of the bronze statue, recalling his father's commitment to serving the people. After the unveiling ceremony, Zhou and the delegation visited the exhibition dedicated to promoting Dr. Hatem's spiritual legacy.

The delegation also visited Hebei Dermatology Prevention and Control Hospital, where Dr. Hatem led a group of medical professionals in the early 1950s to fight for leprosy prevention and control work.

The foreign experts were impressed by the arrangements and opportunity to strengthen their friendships, recognizing China's economic and social achievements in the new era. They hoped that more themed cultural activities will be organized so that a broader range of audiences can gain a deeper understanding of China and contribute to the promotion of international cooperation.

Source: the Department of Science and Technology Talent and Popularization of MOST