On September 30, a ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to honor foreign experts with the 2026 Chinese Government Friendship Award for their outstanding contributions to China’s development. Jean Louis Morel, distinguished professor at Sun Yat-sen University, and professor emeritus at the University of Lorraine, was among this year’s recipients.

Morel’s collaboration with SYSU began in 2005 and has continued for more than two decades. His work with researchers at the university has focused on soil pollution remediation, particularly the treatment of heavy metal-contaminated soils and the safe use of contaminated farmland. Their research has contributed to the development and application of technologies for soil remediation in China and was recognized with the Second Prize of the 2023 National Science and Technology Progress Award.

Over the years, Morel has also helped broaden cooperation between SYSU and French research institutions. He has played an active role in advancing the Sino-French Joint Laboratory for Soil Environment (ECOLAND), fostering collaboration in scientific research, talent development and academic exchange.

His commitment extends beyond research. Morel has worked closely with Chinese students and young researchers and has actively supported academic and people-to-people exchanges between China and France.

Reflecting on the honor, Morel said he was deeply honored and grateful, while emphasizing that the award is also a recognition of the institutions, colleagues and students that have supported their work over the years. “This award is a strong encouragement to continue the work we have started 20 years ago, and especially to create environmental conditions favorable for life.”

Established in 1991, the Chinese Government Friendship Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Chinese government on foreign experts for their outstanding contributions to China’s modernization and development. In 2026, 50 foreign experts received the award.