Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a letter Friday to congratulate the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on its 70th founding anniversary, extending sincere wishes to the scientific and technological personnel at the academy.

In his letter, Xi noted that over the past 70 years, the CAS has solved a large number of major scientific and technological problems, and made breakthroughs in many core technologies. "The advanced deeds of several generations of scientists at the academy – seeking truth and being pragmatic, serving the country and the people, and dedicating themselves selflessly – demonstrate patriotism and noble character of the vast intellectuals of the country."

Xi stressed that innovation is the first driving force for development in today's world. He encouraged the academy to stay true to its original aspirations, remain committed to its mission, seize strategic opportunities and build China into a science and technology giant.

The CAS is one of the world's top research establishments.