Academician Cheng Xiangwen has made remarkable achievements in the field of corn breeding and has been warmly received by national leaders on many occasions. On January 22, 2011, Wen Jiabao, then Premier of the State Council, went to Henan to investigate the drought situation and made a special trip to inspect the Hebi Academy of Agricultural Sciences. At that time, Premier Wen Jiabao was deeply touched when he heard that Cheng Xiangwen had been engaged in corn-related work for 48 years and had devoted his whole life to the cause of corn breeding. He held Cheng Xiangwen's hand tightly and praised: "It can be said that you have dedicated your 70 years to the cause of breeding and agricultural science. Scientific and technological personnel in Henan should learn from you, and I will also learn from you!" Since then, Premier Wen Jiabao has received Cheng Xiangwen cordially for another 5 times. Moreover, in 2012, the corn variety "Xundan 20" won the first prize of the National Science and Technology Progress Award. Academician Cheng Xiangwen was commended in the Great Hall of the People and received by Party and state leaders including Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao, with Premier Wen Jiabao personally presenting the award to him.
Academician Cheng Xiangwen's outstanding contributions have also received attention and recognition from Li Keqiang, the succeeding Premier. In view of Academician Cheng Xiangwen's pivotal position in the field of agricultural scientific research and the country's high emphasis on agricultural science and technology innovation, the exchanges between Premier Li Keqiang and Academician Cheng Xiangwen focused on key issues such as the development of agricultural science and technology and ensuring national food security. This is undoubtedly another full affirmation of Academician Cheng Xiangwen's long-term persistence in the front line of agricultural scientific research and his silent dedication.
