Even with much attention on rising and strengthening Western nations, many would agree that China is quickly becoming one of the world's greatest superpowers.

The UW's newest international addition will set up shop in Beijing, the capital of the country, with the fourth largest economy in the world, President Mark Emmert announced late last month. Private contributions are expected to maintain the bureau.

"Opening an office in Beijing will help to facilitate movement of our people and will enable us to build stronger ties with the universities and government offices," Emmert said in a press release. "It will also allow us to interact more with Washington-based businesses in establishing partnerships in China and to explore other opportunities for us there."

The office, which will house two to three staff members, will be run by Hank T. Wang, a China-based lawyer and professor of law at Shantou University School of Law and China University of Law and Political Science. Wang has worked with China relations for 30 years.

"The idea is to have somebody knowledgeable, informed and well- connected to be on the radar in China to be able to open opportunities for us, to helps us meet and talk to the right people, to make us aware of opportunities as they come up on the horizon," said Norm Arkans, director of media relations.

Wang will aid both students and faculty in making connections with universities, researchers and government officials.

Unlike the University's Rome Center — its largest international center — the office will not house students or offer classes, Arkans said.

"At this point it's an office that's a resource for us to increase our activity over there," he added.

Chinese scholars make up the largest group of international scholars studying at the UW, with 400 students enrolled in University programs. During the 2005-06 academic year, 120 UW students traveled to the country through foreign exchange programs, the press release reported.

Senior Nancy Sun, former vice president of the Chinese Student Association, cited education, trade and next year's Olympics as examples of the world's new focus on China.

"I'm not surprised to see that UW is starting an office over there," she said. "Everything is revolving around China."

[Reach reporter Meghan Peters at features@thedaily.washington.edu]