From January 1 through 12, SIIS President Yang Jiemian led a delegation to Africa at the invitation of the Chinese embassies in Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. During their stay in Africa, the SIIS delegation exchanged views with African officials and scholars on such issues as China-Africa relations, regional cooperation in Africa and so forth. The visit received a wide attention in Africa. The delegation met with government leaders and Chinese diplomats in Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The SIIS delegation also held discussions with representatives of Chinese-funded enterprises and Chinese embassy staff in Africa, and visited Chinese-aided agricultural zones, local African community in Namibia, and development projects for women as well.