At the invitation of the South African Institute of International Affairs East London Branch, Ambassador Liu Guijin addressed a gathering in Regent Hotel, East London on August 15. Among the audience were nearly 80 people, including SAIIA members, business executives, local Chinese community leaders and journalists.

In the keynote speech entitled "China – South Africa Today", Ambassador Liu gave an overview of the Chinese economy and Sino-SA relations. Economic cooperation between the two countries also highlighted the presentation, which drew great interest and received enthusiastic response from the audience.

The presentation was followed by a Q&A session, during which Ambassador Liu responded to questions on bilateral relations, as well as the achievements and experience in China's poverty alleviation and job creation efforts.

The following day, Daily Dispatch, the local newspaper, carried an extensive report on the event.