The unrelenting propaganda of fascist Italy and the two countries’ mutual economic interests led to joint industrial initiatives. Starting in 1933 and during the period of Ciano’s diplomatic activity (May 1930 to June 1933), the Generalissimo sent missions of his own to Italy to conclude trade agreements and familiarise themselves with fascist ideology and economic reforms. Kung Hsiang-hsi (1881–1967), a member of the Kuomintang Executive Committee, Minister of Industry and brother-in-law of the Generalissimo, joined the first high-level meeting in Rome. In February 1933, Kung met with the Pope and Mussolini. Returning to China, the Chinese minister communicated his favourable impressions of Italy directly to Chiang. From that mission, the initial foundations for economic and military co-operation were laid. Formal contacts began for the preparation of a training mission, designed to improve the effectiveness of the Chinese air force, which Chiang considered of strategic importance. The air force mission was later formalised through a diplomatic request to the fascist government on 10 April 1933, along with a purchase order for 100 million lire worth of military aircraft from FIAT and Caproni.