On 7 July 2008, WAN Gang, Minister of MOST, and Li Xueyong, Secretary of Ministry Party Group held an informal discussion with experts at the Comprehensive Evaluation Meeting 2008 under the "National Basic Research Program of China" or "973 Program" in Tianjin. Those present at the discussions include about forty experts including Lin Quan and Chen Jiaer, deputy heads of 973 Program Expert Advisory Group, and other related officials. WAN and LI earnestly listened to the expert's opinions and addressed the meeting. 
 
WAN and LI also paid a special visit to ZHOU Guangzhao, head of 973 Program Expert Advisory Group, and exchanged views on the future development of 973 Program.