A tie adorned with Chinese characters representing chemical elements unexpectedly opened a conversation between President Xi Jinping and British chemist David Evans.

In 2020, at a Spring Festival reception in Beijing, Xi noticed Evans' tie while shaking hands with him. Xi said, "I can guess your profession. We could have been fellows, (because) I studied chemical engineering (at university)."

Evans, a professor at Beijing University of Chemical Technology, was pleasantly surprised to learn of Xi's academic background at Tsinghua University in the 1970s.

His second interaction with Xi amazed him even more. In September 2020, he was invited to attend and speak at a symposium hosted by Xi.

Evans shared his experience of engaging in science popularization activities in primary and secondary school classrooms. Xi took great interest in it and emphasized that efforts to cultivate students' hands-on ability and independent thinking must be strengthened.

Xi also delivered a speech citing scientific knowledge, principles, and historical facts. Evans said, "I have rarely seen a state leader having such an ability to engage in an in-depth discussion of scientific logic and laws."

Noting that the key to Chinese modernization lies in science and technology, Xi has shown a keen interest in frontier areas. He is no stranger to the world of cutting-edge advancements, and concepts like AI, quantum, and self-driving technology dot his speeches.

During his inspection visits nationwide, he has visited research institutions and sci-tech enterprises, and is often seen checking out the latest gadgets at tech exhibitions.