Then he was a deputy at the National Development and Reform Commission, where he largely dealt with matters pertaining to China's energy policy.

He was appointed to the post at the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on December 29, 2007.

[4][5] Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport, Chen was greeted by Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Vice Chairman Kao Koong-lian.

[7][8] In end of February 2014, Chen and delegation visited Taiwan for the 10th round of cross-strait negotiation with the SEF.

[9] At the final day of the 3-day visit, Chen, accompanied by SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane and Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin, visited the Taipei Zoo to see the zoo's giant panda Yuan Zai, whose parents were sent to Taiwan as part of a cultural exchange.