November 1st, Chairman of the Commission of the African Union, Jean Ping, visited SIIS and gave a speech titling “the Development and Integration of Africa, and China-African Union Relations.” He introduced the development of the African Union, pointed out that China has made great contribution to the peace and development of Africa, and expressed his expectation that China take a more active role in African affairs. SIIS researchers and experts from Fudan University, East China Normal University, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences and Institute of African Studies, Zhejiang Normal University, attended the speech and interacted with Chairman Jean Ping. After the speech, SIIS President Yang Jiemian talked with Jean Ping. This eventwas also part of 2010 Expo closing activities Mr. Jean Ping participated.