HONG KONG -- The PBC School of Finance (PBCSF) of Tsinghua University and the Hong Kong Academy of Finance (AoF) have recently inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU), establishing a framework for collaboration on research, exchange, and the cultivation of financial industry leaders.

Under the MoU, the two institutions pledged to promote exchange through joint events, seminars and academic conferences, as well as by initiating research and development programs on topics of mutual interest.

The new partnership will help the AoF expand its network in the Chinese mainland and further cement its role as a hub for cultivating financial industry leaders, said Enoch Fung, the AoF's chief executive officer.

Jiao Jie, dean of the PBSCF of Tsinghua University, said the institution looked forward to deeper cooperation with the AoF in areas including international financial policy, cutting-edge fintech research and practice, and the development of technology-driven financial ecosystems.

Founded in 2012, the PBCSF of Tsinghua University is a joint venture between Tsinghua and China's central bank. The AoF is set up with full collaboration with Hong Kong's financial regulatory bodies, with the mission of developing financial leadership and building a repository of knowledge in monetary and financial research.

Supported by the AoF, the PBCSF of Tsinghua University held a forum in Hong Kong earlier this week to explore paths to boost the city's global competitiveness.