Guangzhou Institute of Advanced Technology (GIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, and South Korea's Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) signed a MoU on July 21.

According to the agreement, the GIAT and GIST will boost scientific and technological research and development through close exchanges and cooperation based on mutual respect and trust. The two parties will promote the construction of Sino-Korean laboratories and research centers, enhance exchange and cooperation in areas of smart manufacturing, biotech and environmental protection as well as an increase academic exchange activities.

Guangzhou has established sister city relationship with Gwangju since October 25th, 1996. As the South Korea's fifth largest city, Gwangju is the administrative, military, economic, social and cultural hub of southwestern South Korea.

According to Zhan Decun, Director of Guangzhou Foreign Affairs Office, 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of the international friendship between Guangzhou and Gwangju. The two cities have an important partnership, with extensive exchanges and cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, science and technology, education and culture. Guangzhou will work in close ties with Gwangju to push forward the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital economy.

During the pandemic, both cities showed great support to each other. On February 4th, 2020, Gwangju donated 10 thousand medical masks to Guangzhou. In March, 2020, Guangzhou donated a number of N95 and KN95 masks to Gwangju.