XJTLU International Relations Master’s Student Engages in Global Governance Dialogue at Yenching Global Symposium

Every year, the Yenching Global Symposium brings together some of the world’s most promising young minds to engage with the questions reshaping international affairs. In 2026, one of those seats belonged to an XJTLU student.

Jirayut Kuptanond

Jirayut Kuptanond, from the MA International Relations programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), was selected to attend the 10th Annual Yenching Global Symposium at Yenching Academy, Peking University—chosen from more than 6,000 applicants across 160 countries and regions.

“The symposium was not just an academic event—it was a space where ideas, cultures, and perspectives came together,” he says.

The theme of this year’s symposium, “Grasping New Power Relations,” resonated closely with the programme’s focus on global public policy and international order. Over the course of the event, Jirayut participated in discussions spanning geopolitics, diplomacy, and global governance—core themes embedded in the curriculum of MA International Relations.

The symposium opened with remarks by David Daokui Li, Professor of Economics at Tsinghua University. His reflections set an outward-looking tone for the event: “Peking University isn’t Beijing, Beijing isn’t China… If you want to understand China, you have to step outside your own environment and explore.”

Notably, Professor Li will also deliver a keynote at the Department of International Studies’ upcoming conference.

Beyond plenary sessions, Jirayut engaged in dynamic exchanges with leading scholars, including Professor Xie Tao of Beijing Foreign Studies University, discussing China’s evolving global role, and Arnold Howitt of Harvard Kennedy School, on crisis management and decision-making under pressure.

“These conversations pushed me to think beyond theory and engage with how policy decisions are actually made,” he says.

The experience extended beyond the conference hall. Cultural activities—including a vibrant Cultural Bazaar and a visit to the Summer Palace—highlighted the importance of cultural literacy in international engagement. Jirayut also connected with peers from leading institutions such as Columbia University and Harvard University, building a global network that will endure well beyond the programme.

Reflecting on the experience, Jirayut says: “This opportunity reminded me that international relations is not only something we study—it is something we live through dialogue, exchange, and engagement.”

Jirayut’s participation highlights the distinctive approach of XJTLU’s MA International Relations programme, which combines rigorous academic training in political and governance issues with meaningful global exposure. Through their studies in the Department of International Studies, students develop a strong global mindset and analytical skills, preparing them for careers in policy, academia, and international organisations.

Contributed by the Department of International Studies

Edit by Yiyi Gu