MISKOLC, Hungary, April 23 (Xinhua) -- The University of Miskolc in northeast Hungary opened a China Center on Monday, where students can learn Mandarin and eventually be able to study Chinese aspects of sociology, cultural anthropology, philosophy, and music and art history.

The Center is named for isocyanate producer and sponsor Wanhua-BorsodChem, a local member of China's Wanhua Group located in Kazincbarcika, 20 kilometers north of Miskolc.

The ultimate goal of the new center is to support joint research and exchanges of researchers between Chinese universities and the Miskolc school, which has a strong technology component.

Hungary's state secretary for culture Geza Szocs told the gathering at the new facility that the leadership of both countries had recognized the significance of cooperation and the value of a potential alliance.

Ding Jiansheng, President and CEO of Wanhua-BorsodChem focused on the need for a highly competent workforce knowledgeable in both Mandarin and state-of-the art technology, hence their interest in the project.

The Rector of University of Miskolc Gyula Patko said he thought it would improve job opportunities for graduates. There are currently 15,000 students at the university.