Michael Schumann, Chairman of the Board of the Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade (BWA), was today awarded the “Yanzhao Friendship Award”, the highest Order of Merit granted by Hebei Province to international experts. The award recognizes Schumann’s outstanding contributions to advancing economic, technological, and cultural cooperation between Germany and Hebei Province.

The award ceremony took place in the Xiong’an New Area, one of China’s most significant innovation and development hubs. The distinction was personally presented by Wang Zhengpu, Governor of Hebei Province, who praised Schumann’s dedicated efforts to foster stable partnerships, technology transfer, and sustainable development.

“I regard this award as both a great honor and a responsibility to further strengthen the bridges between Germany, Europe, and China,” said Michael Schumann. “With nearly 75 million inhabitants, Hebei Province is a dynamic region with enormous potential. Especially in times of global transformation, we need stable partnerships built on mutual respect, shared interests, and sustainable growth.”

The BWA has maintained close relations with Hebei Province for many years. A decade ago, Hebei entered into a formal partnership with the German federal state of Brandenburg, and the BWA has since actively supported German companies in establishing cooperation projects, innovation partnerships, and market access in the region. In May 2024, the association signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Hebei Foreign Affairs Office (FAO), laying the foundation for further joint initiatives in green technologies, intelligent manufacturing, healthcare and life sciences, and sustainable urban development.

By receiving the “Yanzhao Friendship Award,” Michael Schumann joins a distinguished group of international figures who have made significant contributions to Hebei’s economic, scientific, and technological progress. Established in 2002, the award is considered the highest provincial honor and the most prestigious Order of Merit for foreign experts.