Sony Ericsson opened a global R&D operation center in Beijing on July 28, 2011 and expanded its partnership with Chinese retailer Suning, according to the Commercial Times of Taiwan. Sony Ericsson's moves are expected to broaden its presence in the Chinese Smartphone market. As per the strategic cooperation framework agreement signed between Sony Ericsson and Suning, the two companies will cooperate on retail and market strategies, aiming to sell five million units of Sony Ericsson's Smartphones from 2011 to 2015. The new operation center is projected to be used for technology development as well as strengthening its relationships with Chinese customer.