To strengthen international collaboration in the field of agricultural product quality and safety, and to expand partnerships with global organizations, a delegation led by vice president Zhao Zhihui, visited Italy and Belgium from May 21 to 28, 2025. 

In Italy:

The delegation visited the FAO Headquarters and engaged in in-depth discussions with officials from the Plant Production and Protection Division (NSP) on topics such as pesticide residue control technologies, professional talent development, and international training cooperation. Multiple areas of collaboration were identified. At the Chinese Mission to FAO, Zhao Zhihui briefed Ambassador Zhang Lubiao on the SAAS's recent achievements in international agricultural cooperation, particularly in South-South cooperation and China-Africa partnerships. Ambassador Zhang provided constructive guidance on the SAAS's future international engagement, considering global agricultural trends. The delegation also discussed strategies to enhance the SAAS's internationalization and cultivate globally competent agricultural scientists.

In Belgium:

The delegation visited the Belgian National Public Health Institute (Sciensano), Catholic University of Louvain, and Ghent University. At Sciensano, both sides presented academic reports on chemical health risk assessment and mycotoxin control, reaching consensus on joint international proficiency testing for mycotoxins and deepening research collaboration. The third phase of their research cooperation agreement was renewed. At Catholic University of Louvain, the delegation exchanged information on key research areas and progress through academic presentations, explored future collaborative projects and staff exchange mechanisms, and investigated the university’s specialized microbial strain bank and advanced preservation facilities. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was formally signed between the two institutions. The delegation also discussed ongoing international projects and plans for joint applications with Sciensano and Catholic University of Louvain, visiting their laboratories and research facilities. At Ghent University, the delegation engaged in academic discussions on the latest advancements in mycotoxin research, investigated the mycotoxin analysis laboratory, and explored future collaboration opportunities.

During the visit, the delegation also introduced SAAS to Chinese students studying abroad, encouraging them to consider joining SAAS in the future to contribute to China’s agricultural research development.