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A meeting between Oleg Melnichenko and Xiang Bo took place at the Governor's House.
The Governor noted that Chinese provinces are priority strategic partners for the region. China ranks first among foreign nations in terms of trade turnover with Penza Oblast, accounting for over 40% of imports and more than 11% of total foreign trade exports.
Penza Oblast has signed cooperation agreements with six provinces and five cities in China.
"We are expanding interaction with key regions of the People's Republic of China important for Russia," emphasized Oleg Melnichenko. "Currently, Penza Oblast Vice-Governor Sergei Valerievich Fedotov is working in China, having participated in the VI Russian-Chinese Small and Medium Business Forum, where opportunities for implementing investment, educational, and cultural projects are being discussed."
"The primary mission of the Consulate General is to facilitate the development of cooperation agreements reached by our nations' leaders and to establish relations between Chinese provinces and regions of the Volga Federal District," stated Xiang Bo. "The strengthening of relations between Shaanxi and Penza Oblast serves as an example of successful cooperation."
During his visit to the region, the Chinese Consul General in Kazan visited Penza State University, commending the institution's high-quality educational programs.
Approximately three hundred Chinese citizens are studying in Penza Oblast, pursuing pedagogical education (music, physical education, philology) and international economics through joint programs. Penza State University has formal cooperation agreements with seven Chinese universities and colleges, while Penza State Agrarian University has a cooperation agreement with South China Agricultural University (Guangdong Province, Guangzhou). Currently, Penza students are undertaking internships in Guangzhou, with Chinese students scheduled to visit Penza in the spring.
"We propose to our Chinese friends and partners opening a new direction in international youth policy," the Governor noted. "Since 2013, Penza has implemented the 'Guardsman' military-patriotic camp for youth in the Volga Federal District, preparing young people for military academy enrollment and army service. During the Vice-Governor's visit to China, we extended invitations for teams from Heilongjiang and Shaanxi provinces."
"Based on the 'Guardsman' program, we can create a unique international project within the Volga Federal District," he added.
The regional leader also proposed organizing tours for the region's best performing arts groups to Xi'an, Baoji, and Beijing as part of cultural exchange.
The parties discussed details of implementing investment projects within previously established agreements (production of industrial wastewater treatment equipment, creation of an industrial park, cooperation between food and furniture industry enterprises). In 2026, Penza Oblast plans to host an economic forum with Chinese participation.
"Next year, the Chinese Consulate General in Kazan will organize a business trip to China," informed Xiang Bo. "We will send invitations to Penza Oblast representatives, invite their participation, and hope for your support."