An Iranian delegation led by Vice Minister Dr. Jahangir Porhemmat of Iran's Ministry of Agriculture paid a visit to CNRRI on August 14^th, 2012.

Director General Dr. Cheng Shihua, Chief of Rice Center Dr. Zhu Defeng, and Dr. Luoju from the Division of International Cooperation rolled out the welcome mat to receive the delegation. Afterwards, frank and useful discussions have been conducted.

Dr. Cheng Shihua addressed a welcome speech to Vice Minister Porhemmat and other members of Iran delegation, acknowledging their sincerity of coming. The Division of Program Management and International Cooperation reported on CNRRI's status, progress in the development of scientific research, and the general International Cooperation picture.

During their visit, Iran delegation took field trips to investigate rice growing in farming areas. CNRRI representatives and Iran delegation members exchanged information on rice germplasm resources, genetic breeding, cultivation techniques, and other topics of mutual interest, ultimately reaching consensus.

Vice Minister Porhemmat summarized the status of Iran's rice production and speak admiringly of CNRRI's fruitful achievements. He initiated cooperation with CNRRI in rice technology and invited Dr. Cheng to further advance and deepen bilateral cooperation between China and Iran.