"The power of cultural exchange is formidable," said British professor Gary Rawnsley when addressing the 2022 Ningbo International Humanity Communication Sharing Forum on Friday.

Rawnsley, dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), noted that culture can bring us closer together and help us understand that what binds us is far greater than what separates us.

At the forum, the professor, who has been working in Ningbo, Zhejiang province for many years, also shared eight steps to consider when designing and executing a program or strategy for cultural exchange.

"I am delighted that China takes seriously its commitment to cultural exchange, and this forum indicates the level of efforts put into growing this area of international activity," he added.

The forum, organized by the Ningbo authorities, was held at UNNC in Ningbo, during which the first group of 25 Ningbo international cultural exchange bases were awarded and shared their experiences in international cultural exchange.

Ranging from schools and colleges, scenic spots, libraries and museums to companies, residential communities, villages and social organizations, the 25 bases will become platforms for expats to learn about the city and promote Chinese culture around the world.

Two institutes - UNNC and Zhejiang Wanli University - were also awarded the Zhejiang Provincial International Cultural Exchange Bases at the forum.

Established with just 250 students from Zhejiang province in 2004, UNNC, the first Sino-foreign university in China, has been taking the lead in promoting cultural exchange between higher education institutes in China and the United Kingdom. Now, the university is home to students from more than 70 countries and regions around the world.

Since its establishment in 2015, the Ningbo Maritime Silk Road Institute of Zhejiang Wanli University has been cooperating with colleges and institutes to promote cultural exchange through activities such as training sessions and academic forums.