Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Tuesday innovation should play a leading role in facilitating steady and high-quality development of the country's economy.
Li made the remarks at the annual ceremony held in Beijing to honor distinguished scientists and research achievements.
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He recalled China has witnessed breakthroughs in scientific and technological development over the past 40 years of reform and opening-up.
In the past year, facing the complex international situation as well as the arduous task of reform, enhancing development and maintaining stability, China's economic and social development has maintained healthy development with science and technological innovation having made new achievements, Li noted.
China should grasp the trends of the world's new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, deeply implement the strategy of innovation-driven development and constantly enhance economic innovation and competitiveness, he added.
Li called to adjust technology development strategy and optimize major national science and technology projects.
Representatives attend the annual National Science and Technology Award Conference in Beijing, January 8, 2019. /VCG Photo
He reiterated the importance of basic research and long-term support for the integration of basic research, applied research as well as industrialization.
While hailing an open, collaborative and efficient research platform, Li encouraged deepening reform of the science and technology management system and promoting the scientific spirit.
He stressed the reform in investment policy, fund management system, salary incentive system, and researcher autonomy.
The premier encouraged to not only select young people boldly but also do things in a down-to-earth manner.
Li emphasized the central role of enterprises in innovation. He urged the adoption of more market-oriented measures to boost innovation in enterprises.
The Chinese premier also called for a fair and inclusive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, adding that work should be accelerated to establish a system that creates, protects, implements and serves intellectual property rights.
Meanwhile, Li encouraged further openness and cooperation in building up China's innovative capability.
The personnel and academic exchanges should be better facilitated so as to maximize resources for innovation, he stressed.