Current geopolitical developments and updates to regulatory frameworks are creating an increasingly challenging environment for international research cooperation. On behalf of the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), DLR Projektträger supports German universities and research organisations in navigating collaborations with Chinese partners and making informed decisions.

Germany and the People’s Republic of China share a long-standing partnership in research and education. At the same time, years of substantial investment to reduce technological dependencies and establish the country as global leader in science and innovation have made China an increasingly important competitor and systemic rival.

To support the academic community in navigating cooperation with China in an increasingly complex regulatory and policy environment, the German government has committed itself to strengthening China expertise across the education and research system, particularly through its recent China Strategy. DLR Projektträger contributes to this effort on behalf of the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).

“China Orientation” sessions

Since 2020, DLR Projektträger has been organising info sessions, workshops and other dialogue formats on China.

“China Orientation” activities include info sessions for universities (“Framework conditions for successful cooperation with China”, organised in cooperation with the German Rectors’ Conference), regular dialogues with the Alliance of German Science Organisations, roundtable discussions with state-level science ministries, workshops for early-career researchers in STEM fields, and a working group on current legislative developments in China and their impact on collaboration. By consolidating knowledge on framework conditions for cooperation and specific topics such as recent developments in science, innovation, and education policy, these formats build expertise on China within the German academic community, create opportunities for exchange, and provide a platform to share experiences and best practices.

The DLR Projektträger also arranges initial legal consultations with a specialised law firm to provide guidance on cooperation agreements and address questions on legal matters in collaborations with Chinese partners. This service is offered to the administrations of German public universities as well institutions belonging to the Fraunhofer Society, the Max Planck Society, the Helmholtz Association, and the Leibniz Association.