scientific research work

On the afternoon of November 27, 2025, Professor Huang Dayuan from Xi’an International Studies University was invited to deliver the 479th lecture of the “Hou Wailu Academic Lecture” series at Northwest University. He presented a special lecture titled “On the Oasis Perspective in Central Asian Country and Region Studies” for faculty and students. The lecture was hosted by Mei Zilin, Head of the Russian Department at the Northwest University School of Foreign Languages. Numerous faculty and students from the university attended.

In his lecture, Professor Huang Dayuan pointed out that the historical development of Central Asia has always been closely intertwined with the unique geographical features, ecological conditions, and cultural functions of its oases. He emphasized that the “oasis perspective” is a crucial entry point for understanding Central Asian country and region history. As a core element shaping the form of Central Asian civilization, trade networks, and political landscapes, oases have long played an “intermediary” and “hub” role in the history of exchanges among Eurasian civilizations. The profound ethnic memories and multiple cultural layers carried by oases continue to deeply influence the identity construction process of modern nation-states in Central Asia. Professor Huang further explained that the essence of oasis civilization is the superposition of ecological adaptation strategies and cultural adjustment processes across different time scales. This provides an important dimension for understanding Central Asian country and region history. He noted that contemporary Central Asian country and region studies must pay attention to the basic characteristics of specific oases and systematically examine their roles in the historical development of Central Asia. On this basis, scholars should further advance in-depth discussions on the contemporary practical issues of the five Central Asian countries. By interpreting Central Asia through the “oasis perspective” at the social science level, research can deepen the understanding of the mutual construction between China’s “globality” and the world’s “Chineseness” within the framework of the “Belt and Road Initiative”. This promotes Central Asian country and region studies to tangibly serve the goal of building a “Community with a Shared Future between China and its Neighboring Central Asian Countries.”

During the interactive session, Professor Huang Dayuan engaged in lively and in-depth discussions with the attending faculty and students on topics such as “the methodological significance of the oasis perspective” and “the Belt and Road Initiative and new pathways for academic research.” Professor Huang responded in detail to the questions raised by faculty and students. Drawing on his extensive experience in frontier and regional studies, he provided forward-looking and actionable academic suggestions. This lecture not only enhanced the faculty and students’ understanding of the historical context and developmental logic of Central Asia but also clarified new perspectives and methodologies in regional and country studies. It expanded the horizons for talent cultivation and interdisciplinary collaboration in related fields.

Speaker: Professor Huang Dayuan

Host: Teacher Mei Zilin

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