The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and the University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB) Monday signed an agreement to promote academic exchange and research collaboration.

HKUST President Paul Chu and USTB President Xu Jinwu sealed the agreement at a ceremony held at HKUST.

Under the agreement, HKUST and USTB will collaborate in teaching and research in various fields, including materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science and engineering, electronic engineering, civil and environmental engineering, chemical engineering and bio-engineering.

Academic exchanges between faculty, students and staff will also be promoted and the two universities will jointly organize academic conferences and student camps. Faculty and researchers will be invited for visits, teaching, international conferences and other academic activities at the partner university.

Founded in 1952, USTB is a national key university renowned for its expertise in metallurgy, materials science and engineering.

(Xinhua New Agency February 1, 2005)