Chongqing - German Chancellor Olaf Scholz arrived in Chongqing on his three-day visit to China on April 14, engaging directly with local university students to discuss urbanization, career plans, and cultural integration.

The dialogue began with Chancellor Scholz prompting students from Chongqing University to express their views on urbanization in a megacity like Chongqing. 

Feng Panpan, an Architecture and Urban Planning student, responded, "The urbanization process in China is undoubtedly rapid, especially for a megacity like Chongqing. Due to the natural barrier of mountains and rivers, Chongqing has had to expand its urbanization through multi-centered groupings, which differs from the usual sprawling urban development model." 

"At the same time, the scenario of limited land and high population density has led to Chongqing's high-density, multi-dimensional urban architectural and transportation constructions. Imagine being above the ground on a structure more than ten stories high—this represents the charm of Chongqing as a city," Feng added.

Niu Hongyuan, another student from the same department, highlighted the importance of regional economic zones: "The recent emphasis on the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone has drawn significant attention to regional collaborative development." Niu pointed out that Germany's balanced development and city networks could serve as a model for Chongqing's urban planning, particularly suited to its mountainous terrain and high population density.

Environmental concerns were addressed by Du Xiaoqi, a student from the Environmental and Ecological College, who advocated for an integrated approach to urban construction and ecological protection. "This can lead to a more comprehensive and systematic approach to eco-friendly urban development, benefiting the sustainability of the energy economy. A better ecological and environmental governance mechanism would also promote the development of the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone," Du explained.

Discussing energy perspectives, Hu Zhiru from the Civil Engineering College noted, "Chongqing places great emphasis on energy transition, having shifted from a heavy industrial city to one focused on new energy." He highlighted the role of the southwest region in developing new and renewable energy resources, such as lithium batteries, natural gas, and hydroelectric power.

"Chongqing's new energy development is significant for both China's and the global energy transition and emission reduction goals," said Hu.

When the Chancellor inquired about their future career plans, the students shared their ambitious goals. 

Feng aspires to blend various disciplines in urban development and become a university professor. Niu is looking towards further studies abroad and is particularly interested in exchange programs with Germany, reflecting on the expected rise in bilateral exchanges. Hu, focusing on energy storage technologies, plans to continue his studies in Germany and then return to contribute to China's technical advancements. Du is also pursuing a doctoral degree to enhance his expertise and potentially teach.

Addressing the coexistence of traditional culture with rapid urban development, Hu illustrated this balance through the local culinary preferences, where fast food for convenience during weekdays contrasts with traditional hotpot enjoyed during leisure times, reflecting a blend of modernity and tradition.

The discussion also touched on the coexistence of traditional culture and rapid urban development. 

"Rapid urban development boosts our country's productivity without leading to the loss of traditional culture," Hu used the example of Chongqing's food culture, where fast food options during weekdays contrast with enjoying traditional hotpot during leisure times.

Discussing values and the deepest wishes for the future, Du emphasized the importance of national support for education that enables fair competition and personal growth. Hu expressed his gratitude towards the educational opportunities that have allowed him to pursue advanced studies, underscoring a commitment to contribute to the nation's prosperity. Niu voiced the younger generation's desire for a peaceful, safe, and beautiful living environment.

In response to the students' questions, Chancellor Scholz shared his impressions of Chongqing. "The architecture and cuisine of Chongqing are quite distinctive, especially the skyline of Chongqing," he also hinted at the future strengthening of Germany-China cooperation in various fields.