Visit of the Delegation from the Consulate General of China in Marseille to MIO and the Unveiling Ceremony of AFCSO

On the morning of May 11, 2026, a delegation from the Consulate General of China in Marseille visited the Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) at Aix-Marseille University and attended the “China-France Marine Science Cooperation and Exchange Meeting.” The meeting was hosted by MIO, with the support and organizational assistance of AFCSO, with the aim of promoting China-France cooperation in marine science, exchanges among young researchers, and the development of scientific research platforms. During the meeting, Jean-Luc BEUZIT, Director of OSU Pythéas, and Qin Hao, Deputy Consul General of the Consulate General of China in Marseille, delivered remarks. Participants presented and discussed a range of topics, including OSU Pythéas and MIO, the long-standing cooperation between the Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IOCAS) and MIO, the development of the DYF2M China-France Joint Laboratory, the prospects for cooperation between the Chinese Academy of Sciences and French research institutions, as well as cross-border training and exchanges for young researchers. One of the key moments of the meeting was the presentation and unveiling ceremony of the DYF2M China-France Joint Laboratory and AFCSO. In the presence of representatives from the Consulate General of China in Marseille, MIO, OSU Pythéas, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and young Chinese and French researchers, the DYF2M Joint Laboratory and AFCSO were officially unveiled. This ceremony not only marked an important new step in the development of research platforms for China-France marine science cooperation, but also highlighted the active role of young researchers in promoting bilateral academic exchanges, talent development, and cooperation network building. As a marine science exchange platform initiated by young Chinese and French researchers, AFCSO introduced its mission and future plans during the meeting. The association will focus on organizing online academic exchanges, sharing research opportunities such as internships, PhD positions, postdoctoral positions, short-term visits, and summer schools, strengthening connections and reciprocal visits between Chinese and French laboratories, and promoting marine science outreach and public communication. This event created a positive beginning for establishing smoother communication channels among universities, research institutions, consular institutions, and youth association platforms in China and France. It also injected new momentum into the future development of the China-France marine science cooperation network. Looking ahead, AFCSO will continue to play a bridging role in supporting academic exchanges, the development of young talents, and long-term cooperation in the field of marine science between China and France.