On 30 March 2016, Vivian Forbes, adjunct research professor of the NISCSS and adjunct associate professor of the School of Earth and Environment at the University of Western Australia, gave a lecture titled "Perceptions and Perspectives on China's South Pacific Strategy" and held an in-depth discussion with NISCSS research staff.

Forbes began a two-week-long academic visit to the NISCSS on 28 March 2016 and would gave a series of academic lectures.