1. The Establishment of Area Studies Holds Timely Significance

This section discusses the contemporary significance of establishing area studies. Against the backdrop of major changes in the world landscape, China is closely interconnected with the world. Factors such as major power competition and geopolitical shifts have significant impacts on China's international situation and domestic development. While China promotes global development through its own progress and initiatives, existing research has limitations, such as disciplinary boundaries, fragmented research entities, and a lack of long-term, comprehensive studies. Area studies has emerged in response to these needs. It constitutes a comprehensive research framework that requires an in-depth understanding of the multifaceted conditions and interactive relationships within the target regions and countries. Research topics should focus on countries and regions of critical interest to China, pay attention to national strategic priorities, and make well-founded judgments about future trends.

2. The Task of Area Studies is to Provide New Knowledge Products

This section discusses how area studies, as a primary discipline, has the task of providing knowledge products to address challenges China faces at the regional or national level. It emphasizes interdisciplinary integration, problem-oriented approaches, and the synthesis of theories and methods from various disciplines for comprehensive research. Using European studies as an example, it illustrates the need to update perspectives and integrate research from multiple fields. Simultaneously, field research and proficiency in the languages of the target countries are crucial for obtaining first-hand information and conducting in-depth studies.

3. Defining Research Priorities in Area Studies Based on China's Needs

This section emphasizes that area studies research should be grounded in China's needs and guided by practicality. Using European studies as an example, it points out that comparative research between Chinese modernization and European modernization is of critical importance. Europe's experiences and lessons in areas such as climate governance, energy transition, digital regulations, and social governance are worthy of reference for China. Furthermore, studying Europe's role in the changing world order, China-Europe relations, and the challenges faced by Chinese enterprises "going global" holds significant importance for serving China's practical needs. As an emerging discipline that intersects and integrates with traditional fields, area studies aims to overcome knowledge fragmentation, establish a comprehensive understanding of regions or countries, and thereby better serve practical realities.