How to improve co-operation between Chinese and European experts in traffic and transport engineering

摘要

'We should use stones from foreign mountains for polishing our jade' is a Chinese phrase. Accordingly, Chinese engineers and planners are eager to accept foreign advice for solving traffic and transport problems. But while many international teams have been active in China, working with Chinese partners, this co-operation has not always been fully satisfactory. From the beginnings of a co-operative venture, the differences in size and structure between Chinese and foreign, especially European cities, and the very different traffic and transport volumes have to be taken into account. The same is true for the many differences in decision-making processes and planning methods and procedures. Measures which in European countries have proved to be effective cannot be applied in China without adjusting them to the specific conditions which exist in China. These and many other problems which might impede effective co-operation are dealt with. Then recommendations are given for a more productive communication and co-operation between Chinese and European traffic and transport engineers and planners.