One of the leading universities in the world, the University of Missouri, is working hard to deepen ties with their counterparts in China, especially in aspects such as culture and language. China Daily reporter Zhang Yue interviewed Handy Williamson, vice-provost for International Programs at MU, and Wen Ouyang, director of the Confucius Institute at MU, to find out their thoughts on the university's achievements and future academic strategies.

What impressed you most in China?

Handy Williamson: I have had the good fortune to visit many universities, cities and sites in China in recent years.