The 2025 Tengchong Scientists Forum opened Saturday in southwest China's Yunnan Province, drawing hundreds of scientists, university leaders and entrepreneurs from across the globe to explore cutting-edge research and promote deeper integration between science and industry.

Centered on the theme "Science and AI Changing the World," the forum features a main plenary session and over 10 specialized sub-forums, covering topics from artificial intelligence and life sciences to next-generation materials and biodiversity conservation.

During the event, the "Tengchong Science Award" was presented to Pan Jianwei, a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in recognition of his pioneering achievements in quantum communication and quantum computing. 

For the first time, the forum also recognized nine outstanding young scientists from diverse fields. Among them is Xu Zhanbo of Xi'an Jiaotong University, whose team has developed the world's first hydrogen-powered intelligent zero-carbon energy system.

"This award inspires me to move forward with even more determination in my future research, to stay true to my original aspirations, and to make my own contribution to the discipline of systems engineering," Xu told CGTN.

Xu's breakthrough aligns with China's broader push to accelerate green technological innovation during the country's 15th Five-Year Plan period.

"I believe that as information technology continues to integrate with the traditional energy sector, helping overcome some of the technological bottlenecks in sensing, analysis and control, building more zero-carbon industrial parks is entirely feasible," Xu said.

A technology outlook report was released at the event, forecasting 10 major megatrends expected to transform the world by 2049.

One prediction is that, in 2049 and beyond, autonomous flying cars that can travel both on the ground and in the air will become the mainstream mode of transportation, completely reshaping the urban traffic landscape.

It also predicts that in this age of computer freedom, everyone will be able to create their own worlds through the power of ubiquitous intelligence.

Artificial intelligence was widely discussed at the forum.

"I have no doubt that AI will be used quite a lot in the area of advanced materials, in chemistry, in physics. However, we need new technologies," said Konstantin Novoselov, who won the 2010 Nobel Prize in Physics for discovering graphene.

"Now, we're back at the drawing desk, trying to create new approaches for the use of AI in materials science," he added.

As China's gateway to South and Southeast Asia, Yunnan is well-positioned to deepen cross-border collaboration. Participants from neighboring countries emphasized the importance of regional partnerships.

"Talent development, technology transfer and joint R&D will build on our national efforts, but also require close cooperation with ASEAN and the Lancang-Mekong countries, especially China," said Hul Seingheng, Undersecretary of Cambodia's Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation.

The forum has been held annually in Tengchong—a city renowned for its biodiversity and located near the China-Myanmar border. Organizers hope that by bringing together global talent and expanding investment, this land of volcanic beauty will see more breakthrough scientific achievements come to life.