On October 13, Former First Deputy Mayor of Mannheim, Germany and Honorary Citizen of Zhenjiang Dr. Norbert Egger visited Jiangsu University (JSU). During his visit, he shared his insights during the revision of the German edition of his book, Pearl on the Banks of the Yangtze River—Zhenjiang Through the Eyes of a Foreigner. Vice President of JSU Prof. Cai Yingfeng attended the meeting, along with leaders from the Zhenjiang Municipal Publicity Department, Foreign Affairs Office, Education Bureau, Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism Bureau, as well as representatives from International Office, School of Foreign Languages, School of Liberal Arts, and faculty and student representatives of JSU.

In her address, Vice President Cai Yingfeng noted that Dr. Egger, as an "Honorary Citizen of Zhenjiang," has visited China over a hundred times in the past decades and has personally witnessed China’s reform and opening-up process. Through his writing, Dr. Egger has bridged cultures, sharing Zhenjiang’s educational achievements and cultural charm with Germany, making him a true practitioner of cultural exchange and an envoy of friendship between China and Germany.

Centered on the theme Pearl on the Banks of the Yangtze River—Zhenjiang Through the Eyes of a Foreigner, Dr. Egger shared heartfelt records and unique observations from his book with sincere emotion and a cross-cultural perspective. He elaborated on Zhenjiang’s transformation from an ancient Jiangnan city to a modern urban center, highlighting its achievements in education, culture, and urban development. His sharing allowed attendees to appreciate the profound affection of an international friend for China and Zhenjiang, sparking deep reflections on Sino-German cultural exchange and urban cooperation.

During the interactive session, faculty and students engaged in lively discussions with Dr. Egger on topics such as the book’s content, cross-cultural understanding, and Sino-German urban collaboration. Attendees expressed that the sharing session not only deepened their understanding of Zhenjiang’s international image but also inspired enthusiasm for further reflection and participation in cross-cultural exchanges.

(Source: International Office)