WASHINGTON, D.C.: The University of Michigan is ending its partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China after concerns about national security arose.

This decision comes months after five Chinese students in the joint program were charged with suspicious activities near a U.S. military site.

University President Santa Ono explained in a letter to a congressman that after careful review, the university began the six-month process to officially end the partnership. He emphasized that while the university values international academic partnerships, it takes national security seriously and will improve its screening of visa requirements for international students.

This move is part of a broader trend of American universities cutting ties with Chinese institutions due to concerns that such partnerships might support China's military development. Other universities, including Georgia Tech and UC Berkeley, have also ended similar collaborations.

Representative John Moolenaar, who leads a House committee on the Chinese Communist Party, urged the University of Michigan to close the joint program. He pointed out that Shanghai Jiao Tong University has strong military connections and programs that could contribute to China's intelligence and military modernization.

The five students were charged in October for lying about their activities after being caught near Camp Grayling during a military exercise in August 2023. They are believed to have left the U.S. and have not appeared in court.

In 2020, two Chinese students at the University of Michigan were jailed for taking illegal photos at a naval air station in Florida. Additionally, in October, another Chinese student from the university was charged for illegally voting in the U.S. during early voting.