Chinese, African think tanks urged to be heard Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi (1st L) attends the opening ceremony of the 3rd Meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum & the Launch Ceremony of the China-Africa Think Tanks 10+10 Partnership Plan in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 21, 2013. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) BEIJING, Oct. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese and African think tanks should strive to have a greater voice, a senior Chinese official urged on Monday. Addressing the third meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum, State Councilor Yang Jiechi called on thinks tanks of the two countries to strengthen research and studies on bilateral relations, as well as Chinese and African affairs. He urged the think tanks to strive for a greater voice internationally so as to better serve China-Africa relations. The think tanks should seize the opportunity and help the development of China-Africa relations, according to Yang. A partnership plan for Chinese and African think tanks was launched at the forum. Expressing congratulations on behalf of the Chinese government, Yang said the plan will enhance the level of bilateral exchanges and cooperation.