On July 8th, Tim Niblock, Emeritus Professor in Middle East Politics, Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, University of Exeter, was invited to Shandong University to give an opening speech for the summer course "China under Global Governance" hosted by the Institute of Governance and School of Political Science and Public Administration. Professor Xie Lei from the Institute of Governance presided over the meeting.

Professor Tim Niblock first emphasized multi-dimensional considerations in the discussion of China's governance in today's world environment, considering both the benefits of the country and the shaping and reshaping of the country in a globalized environment. Professor Tim Niblock used his research in the Middle East to illustrate the tremendous impact of the country's own development and the shifting development of neighboring countries. He also described the history of world-wide regional studies since the Second World War, including the development of regional studies, research issues and solutions, with particular emphasis on the importance of research in the Global South. China is part of it. However, its understanding needs to be strengthened. In addition, as young researchers and students, Professor Tim Niblock hopes that we can have more opportunities to conduct research and study in different countries or regions, think outside the box, reduce misunderstandings, strengthen mutual understanding and academic communication. At the end of the lecture, Professor Xie Lei gave a concluding speech. Then, students asked questions on relevant issues. Professor Tim Niblock answered and communicated with teachers and students in depth.

Tim Niblock is an internationally renowned expert on Middle East issues. He was Professor of Middle Eastern Studies and Director of the Centre for Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the University of Durham, 1993-9; Director of the Institute for Arab and Islamic Studies, University of Exeter 1999-2005; Vice-President, European Association for Middle East Studies, 2009-2014; Chair of the Management Board, Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, University of Exeter, 2009-2012,Professor Tim Niblock has a wealth of research results in the history of the Middle East and international relations. His main research interests are the political, economic and international relations of Arab and Islamic countries and the civil society and democratization of Arab and Islamic countries.