Chinese ambassador to Italy Dong Jinyi said on Sunday that as China and Italy have witnessed frequent exchanges, Chinese overseas students should play a greater role in promoting the friendly bilateral relations.

Addressing the annual meeting of the Council of the Chinese Students and Scholars Union in Italy (CSSUI), Dong said the recent Chinese rapid economic development had aroused concerns of Italians from all walks of life. The exchanges between China and Italy in various fields have been increasing, especially in the area of education.

The ambassador encouraged all Chinese students in Italy to work hard and be united in order to make contributions to the motherland with their knowledge as early as possible. 

According to the embassy, this year has seen a prominent rise in the number of Chinese students coming to Italy. So far, a total of more than 1,200 students from China studying in the country, majoring in computer, engineering, industrial design and other key subjects.
 
The Chinese student unions have always cooperated with local governments and non-governmental institutes to conduct different activities to promote understanding between Chinese students and local citizens, thus building a good image of China.

As the educational cooperation between the two countries keeps expanding, the number of Chinese students pursuing study in Italy is expected to increase, the embassy said.