A Syracuse University junior died over the weekend in his home country of China, the university announced Tuesday morning.

Hongming Cao, a junior economics major, who was a student in both the College of Arts and Sciences and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, died following a brief illness, according to an email sent to the SU student body on Tuesday.

“I join Chancellor (Kent) Syverud and the entire Syracuse University community in extending our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him, during this difficult time,” said Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz, senior vice president and dean of student affairs, in the email.