On September 9 2011, a delegation from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa, led by Chairman of the Board Francis Petersen and CEO Sibusiso Sibisi, paid a visit to Shanghai Advanced Research Institute (SARI), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Professor Jiang Mianheng, Vice President of CAS and President of CAS Shanghai Branch and Professor Feng Songlin, President of SARI, received the delegation. Some experts from Life Science and Energy and Environment areas at SARI attended the meeting.

After introducing its research areas and research progress respectively, the two sides conducted in-depth discussion regarding the potential collaboration on energy and environment, life science, interdisciplinary study and technology innovation. It is agreed that the two sides have many common research interests, and would like to better promote the cooperation in relevant areas.

The CSIR is one of the leading scientific and technology research, development and implementation organisations in Africa. the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research, technological innovation as well as industrial and scientific development to improve the quality of life of the country and people. The CSIR is committed to supporting innovation in South Africa to improve national competitiveness in the global economy.