SHENYANG - Shenyang Normal University (SNU) recalls the memory of planting the ‘Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Tree’ on its campus in 2008; a symbolic gesture representing the deep-rooted strategic partnership between Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Global Digital (TAG.GD) and the University. The Tree symbolizes an academic and cultural collaboration aimed at enhancing knowledge exchange between China and the Arab world. This partnership led to the establishment of Jordan’s first institute dedicated to teaching the Chinese language and promoting Chinese culture, which is the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh–Confucius Institute (TAG-Confucius).

The establishment of the TAG–Confucius Institute is considered one of the most notable achievements in this partnership. It serves as a cultural and linguistic bridge, enabling Arab and Chinese students alike to learn each other’s language and culture. Through its joint educational programs, the Institute promotes cultural dialogue between the two nations and has become a respected and prominent destination for those seeking to learn about Chinese culture and study the language of business, trade, and the future.

The planting of the Tree took place during an official visit that included the signing of a cooperation agreement between the two parties. This agreement laid the foundation for joint training and educational programs in digital knowledge, human resource development, and strengthening students’ skills in the domains of the knowledge economy and languages. Since then, the Tree has stood as a symbol of lasting friendship and a shared vision rooted in investing in people and education.


HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, TAG.GD founder and chairman, is recognized as one of the most prominent Arab figures who has contributed to strengthening the Arab–Chinese relations through extensive initiatives in education, digital transformation, and innovation. He has significantly played a pivotal role in promoting mutual understanding by establishing joint centers and institutions, offering training programs for students and academic staff, not to mention, taking part in various Chinese forums dedicated to knowledge and economic development.

Within the context of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to advance global development and international connectivity, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh has played an active role in fostering economic and knowledge cooperation between the Arab region and China. He has consistently emphasized the shared opportunities in technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Through its firms and offices across major Chinese cities, TAG.GD has effectively contributed to supporting the initiative’s goals by implementing projects that focus on building digital capacity, promoting innovation, and facilitating collaboration between Sino-Arab institutions.

Today, the ‘Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Tree’ at Shenyang Normal University is an immortal symbol of a partnership that continues to flourish, reflecting a shared vision aimed at building bridges of cooperation between Chinese and Arab cultures, and advancing toward a knowledge and sustainable development-based future.