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Speakers:

Mr. Wang Zhigang, minister of science and technology 

Mr. Wu Zhaohui, vice minister of science and technology 

Mr. Zhang Guangjun, vice minister of science and technology 

Mr. Xie Min, director general of the Department of Policy, Regulation and Innovation System of the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST)

Mr. Chen Jiachang, director general of the Department of High and New Technology of the MOST

Chairperson:

Mr. Chen Wenjun, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Feb. 24, 2023

Chen Wenjun:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Today, the State Council Information Office (SCIO) is holding the fourth press conference in the series "Embarking on the New Journey — A Government Perspective." We have invited Mr. Wang Zhigang, minister of science and technology, to brief you on implementing the innovation-driven development strategy to build China into a leading country in science and technology. We also have with us two vice ministers and two directors general of science and technology: Mr. Wu Zhaohui, vice minister; Mr. Zhang Guangjun, vice minister; Mr. Xie Min, director general of the Department of Policy, Regulation and Innovation System of the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST); and Mr. Chen Jiachang, director general of the Department of High and New Technology of the MOST.

Now, let's give the floor to Mr. Wang for his introduction.

Wang Zhigang:

Hello ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media. First of all, I would like to thank all friends from the media for your long-term attention, care, support and help regarding scientific and technological innovation. I'm also very pleased to meet you ahead of the upcoming national two sessions and to brief you on the new measures and progress of the national science and technology community in studying and implementing the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress, and speeding up efforts to achieve self-reliance and strength in science and technology .

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has put sci-tech innovation at the center of the country's overall development and pushed for historic achievements and changes in China's sci-tech cause. From independent innovation to self-reliance and self-strengthening, from following others and participating to leading and pioneering, and from breakthroughs in key fields to systematic capacity improvement, the past decade has witnessed leapfrog development of China's sci-tech cause, the fastest improvement in China's sci-tech innovation ability, and the most prominent role played by science and technology as a primary productive force. China's ranking in the Global Innovation Index rose from 34th in 2012 to 11th in 2022, joining the ranks of the world's innovators and ushering in a new stage of building self-reliance and strength in science and technology and building China into a leading country in science and technology. The report to the 20th CPC National Congress states that innovation will remain at the heart of China's modernization drive and that education, science, technology and human resources are the foundational and strategic pillars for building a modern socialist country in all respects . A special chapter has been assigned in the report for relevant arrangements. This is a major strategic decision made by the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core with a look toward the overall trend, the current situation and the long run.

The nationwide science and technology community has thoroughly studied and implemented the guiding principles, decisions and arrangements of the 20th CPC National Congress, overcome difficulties and worked hard. All sectors have worked together to tackle problems, and the country's eastern, central and western regions have cooperated to innovate. Integrated development has been secured within science and technology, industries and financing, and coordinated progress has been made in deepening reform and innovative development. All these have formed a mighty force in the whole nation to pioneer innovation with one heart and one mind. The position of sci-tech innovation in the overall cause of the Party and the country has never been given such prominence and it has played an unprecedented role. Empowerment through science and technology has become a prominent symbol of high-quality development and sci-tech innovation has become an important engine for the modernization drive.

China's sci-tech strength has markedly improved and its influence in the global innovation landscape has significantly increased. China's research and development (R&D) spending nationwide increased from 1 trillion yuan in 2012 to 3.09 trillion yuan in 2022, with R&D spending intensity rising from 1.91% to 2.55%. Investment in basic research rose from 49.9 billion yuan in 2012 to around 195.1 billion yuan in 2022, accounting for 6.3% of the country's total R&D spending, up from 4.8%. The total number of R&D personnel increased from 3.25 million person-years in 2012 to an estimated more than 6 million person-years in 2022, maintaining the first place globally for many years. China's academic papers accounted for 41.7% of the world's hot papers that perform in the top 0.1% of all papers based on citations, and accounted for 27.3% of highly cited papers. China is not only an important participant in international frontier innovation, but also a significant contributor to solving global problems.

Empowerment though science and technology across the board has provided more high-level groundwork for high-quality development. We have insisted that goal orientation and free exploration must go together, made a number of original achievements with international influence in basic research fields such as quantum information and brain science, and played a leading role in innovation in several important areas. We have paid equal attention to shoring up weak links and consolidating strengths, and made breakthroughs in core technologies of key industries including high-performance equipment, intelligent robots and laser manufacturing. We have actively invested in new areas and accelerated scenario application of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain and 5G. We have focused on the two key issues of seeds and arable land to strongly support and guarantee national food security. Regarding people's health and safety, sci-tech innovation has provided more precise and comprehensive support for disease prevention and control, public health and response to population aging. Sci-tech innovation has played a prominent role in penetrating, spreading and transforming. It has deeply integrated with every aspect of economic and social development and the lives of the people, greatly improved the quality and enduring driving force of China's development, and created a broader new vision and brought new, better expectations for the Chinese path to modernization.

Critical reform tasks have been conducted and overall effectiveness of the national innovation system has been significantly improved. The implementation of the three-year plan for structural scientific and technological reform has been accelerated and various breakthroughs have been made in key areas. We have boosted China's strength in strategic science and technology , and accelerated the establishment of a system of national laboratories with Chinese characteristics. High-level research universities and research institutes have played a key role in carrying out major national sci-tech tasks. The principal role of enterprises in sci-tech innovation has been further enhanced. High-tech enterprises increased from 39,000 in 2012 to 400,000 in 2022, contributing 68% of total R&D input of enterprises nationwide, and 762 are among the world's top 2,500 in terms of R&D input. We have coordinated the development of international and regional centers for sci-tech innovation. Zhongguancun has led a new round of trials in granting additional deductions for basic R&D costs and paying for sci-tech advances after trials. A total of 23 national innovation demonstration zones and 177 national high-tech zones have become the pacesetters in promoting high-quality development. Legal policies and cultural environment conducive to sci-tech innovation have been further improved, and the whole of society is more enthusiastic about supporting, investing in, participating in and facilitating innovation than ever before.

We have expanded opening-up and cooperation and actively fostered an innovation ecosystem conducive to international sci-tech exchanges and collaboration. Openness and cooperation are not only essential to the development of science and technology, but also necessary to meet global challenges. Following the international sci-tech cooperation philosophy of openness, inclusiveness, mutual benefit and shared benefits, we have collaborated scientifically and technologically with over 160 countries and regions, and participated in over 200 international organizations and multilateral institutions. China has carried out extensive international cooperative research in such key areas as climate change, clean energy and COVID-19 prevention and control, and conducted joint funding with more than 60 countries, regions and international organizations. The Belt and Road Science, Technology and Innovation Action Plan has yielded good results, and a number of joint laboratories have been built. China has made efforts to lead and organize major international science programs and projects, and actively participated in major international science projects such as the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor and the Square Kilometre Array . We have built more platforms for international sci-tech exchanges and cooperation in key areas to provide a broad stage for international talent to work in China and make China a fertile ground for global innovation and entrepreneurship.

In 2022, thanks to the joint efforts of the whole scientific and technological community, we scored one success after another in scientific and technological innovation. The Tianhe, Wentian, and Mengtian modules have been sent to space as part of China's orbital space station. The Kuafu-1 solar probe, the Qinghai-Tibet scientific expedition, micro-nano satellites, quantum communication, and proton therapy also emerged as key breakthroughs. For the first time, society's spending on research and development exceeded 3 trillion yuan. In addition, the research and development investment intensity exceeded 2.5% for the first time. The proportion of investment in basic research surpassed 6% for the fourth year in a row. Breakthroughs were achieved in several key and core technologies. New steps were taken to increase national strategic scientific and technological strength. Meanwhile, scientific and technological resources ensured the high-quality sports events organization and athletic competitions in the Beijing Winter Olympics. In addition, scientific research breakthroughs contributed significantly to a major and decisive victory in epidemic prevention and control across the country.

This year marks the first year of studying and implementing the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress. To break new ground, the scientific and technological sector needs to be a pioneer in reshaping new advantages in development, be an engine in fostering a new development paradigm, and play a key role in China's modernization drive. At present and in the coming years, we will fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the major decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee. We will set our sights on four important strategic areas, namely embracing global cutting-edge technology, driving economic growth, meeting the country's critical needs, and improving people's health, and take stock of the state-of-the-art and evolving science and technology trends worldwide to seize major opportunities afforded by the new scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation. We will move to upgrade home-grown technologies based on the Chinese characteristics of scientific and technological innovation and proceed from the features of scientific and technological development in the new era to ensure national development and strategic security.

We firmly believe that under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the scientific and technological community will strengthen its confidence in innovation. We will work hard to overcome difficulties, scale new scientific and technological highs, earnestly implement strategic plans put forward at the 20th CPC National Congress, and step up efforts to achieve high-level self-reliance in science and technology. We will get our endeavor to build China into a modern socialist country in all respects off to a good start and make irreplaceable, significant scientific and technological contributions to the modernization drive.

Now, my colleagues and I are ready to share our views on your questions. Thank you.

Chen Wenjun:

Thank you, Mr. Wang. Now the floor is open for questions. Please identify yourself before asking questions.

Xinhua News Agency:

The 20th CPC National Congress identified that education, science and technology, and human resources are the fundamental and strategic pillars for building a modern socialist country in all respects. How do you interpret that? How will the science and technology sector implement it? What are the next steps? Thank you.

Wang Zhigang:

Thank you for your questions. The report to the 20th CPC National Congress devoted a chapter to science and technology, education, and human resources for the first time in history. It suggests that we have developed new strategic thinking in resource allocation and supporting power and resources in our modernization drive. It is about how education, science and technology, and human resources combine to amplify their roles and jointly contribute to modernization. My view is that it is the result of grand strategic considerations. Without strength in education, science and technology, and human resources, there would not be a strong modern country. This reflects our deepening understanding of the law of building a strong modern country and our urgent need for strength in science and technology, education, and human resources in our modernization drive. These three aspects are decisive factors in a country's capacity for development and are of fundamental, far-reaching, and critical significance.

Earlier, education, science and technology, and human resources all played vital roles in the great cause of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. The plan for these three aspects at the 20th CPC National Congress requires that the three continue to play their roles and form synergy to play a greater role. The relationship between the three is that education is the basis, science and technology are the key, and human resources play an essential role. They are mutually reinforcing and revolve around the modernization drive and the goal of building a strong modern country. As indicated in the report to the Party's 20th National Congress, the three strategies regarding invigorating China through science and education, talent fostering, and innovation will be implemented systematically. Coordinated efforts will be made to achieve the three goals of building strength in human resources, science and technology, and education, so as to build a strong modern country. As we progress, the MOST is ready to work with all relevant departments and local governments to coordinate plans on the three strategies, efforts for the three goals, and resources in the areas of education, science and technology, and human resources, as well as relevant policies, to pool all our strength in our modernization drive and test the outcomes of coordinated development throughout the process.

The actions taken in the science and technology field should center on building a strong country in science and technology. First, we must have greater coordination in top-level design. To build a strong modern country, top-level design in this field should consider education and human resources. Second, we need greater coordination between science and technology and education and more efforts in talent cultivation. We need an overall plan for these three aspects. We have set up relevant mechanisms, The MOST plays the leading role in some cases and the supporting role in others. We should assume primary responsibility when playing the leading role and cooperate with relevant departments to do a good job when playing the supporting role. The emphasis should be placed on scientific and technological professionals. China needs many scientific and technological professionals of high caliber. We need the scientific and technological manpower to be rationally structured to adapt to the needs of the modernization drive, so that we can make innovations with Chinese characteristics and make the country powerful in industries, the economy, and national strength with strong human resources and science and technology capacity. Thank you.

Science and Technology Daily:

My questions are regarding basic research. Much attention has been paid to increasing original innovation capacity, and China has made many plans related to basic research. Mr. Wang mentioned just now that efforts in free exploration and task-oriented projects should be made to boost basic research. What progress in basic research has been achieved so far? Also, how can China further improve its capacity for original innovation? Thank you.

Wang Zhigang:

Thank you for your questions, which are good ones and of great importance. As I said at the beginning, China has always attached great importance to basic research. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee has attached even greater importance to it. General Secretary Xi Jinping said basic research is the wellspring of the entire science system and is key to all technological questions. We have always valued basic research, with breakthroughs made in many areas, especially over the decade since the 18th CPC National Congress. A feature of scientific research is that as we proceed, we find that we are not as knowledgeable as we initially thought. This is the consensus of scientists and illustrates the awe of science. At this stage, our country should attach more importance to basic research, and the participating entities and investment in this area should become more important. 

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council have highly prioritized basic research. General Secretary Xi Jinping has made a series of important instructions on it. The Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee held a group study session on strengthening basic research on Feb. 21. The general secretary made an important speech at the event, stressing that strengthening basic research is imperative for higher-level self-reliance and greater strength in science and technology, and is the only path to building China into a world leader in science and technology . He also called for strengthening overall planning and coordination and increasing policy support to promote the high-quality development of basic research.

The MOST has fully implemented the important instructions of the General Secretary and the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee. We have formulated a 10-year plan for basic research. Efforts have been made to increase government investment and guide the entire society, including enterprises, local governments, and private actors, as well as donations, to increase investment in basic research and diversify investment channels. Over the years, funding for basic research has grown from 49.9 billion yuan in 2012 to 195.1 billion yuan in 2022, with an average annual growth rate of nearly 15%, nearly twice the growth rate of China's spending on research and development (R&D). In other words, all sectors saw increased investment while the growth rate of basic research has been faster.

China has made significant breakthroughs in basic research, completing a number of national major projects, such as FAST, the steady high magnetic field, and the spallation neutron source. Key projects have also been planned in fields such as quantum information, stem cells, brain science, and synthetic biology. We have progressed in quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum measurement . We have also made key original achievements with global influence, such as the quantum computer prototype, an artificial method of synthesizing starch from carbon dioxide, and nano-confined catalysis. Carbon dioxide influences the atmosphere, which is a problem. However, if it is combined with other substances and transformed into starch using fine craftsmanship and advanced technologies, it can be applied in various industrial sectors. In doing so, waste materials will be turned into treasures through recycling. These are just a few examples of what technological advancements could bring to us. There are also many other examples concerning national development and security, healthy and sustainable industrial development, and people's lives and health. In particular, major innovation bases, major projects, and high-level teams have played a crucial role together in rapidly strengthening our capacity for original innovation.

We still face some difficulties and shortcomings as we work on basic research. The first challenge in basic research is to pose genuine questions. This is a very challenging task, as it is often said that the key lies in the question rather than the answer. If a question is asked correctly, it can lead research in the right direction. However, if the question is not asked correctly or accurately, your efforts will be much less effective. In other words, results can be achieved more easily if the question is asked correctly. We can ask fundamental questions based on major economic and social development challenges, which means getting to the source of the problem. We can also ask questions based on personal curiosity, which is free exploration. To solve major development problems in the country, both aspects should be given much attention, and we must raise scientific questions based on major challenges, weaknesses and difficulties.

Our country is currently facing technological bottlenecks and weaknesses in some sectors. Getting to the source of the problems and understanding the basic principles and methods of addressing problems requires us to focus on basic research. Developing basic research requires leveraging the roles of excellent teams and talented professionals. Genuine basic research starts with posing questions, proposing fine research methods and paradigms, and ultimately solving problems and answering difficult scientific questions. Meanwhile, it describes laws and methods. To achieve this, we need high-caliber scientists and teams in basic research, who have patriotic sentiments, and possess a sense of honor and pride as well. They should be able to answer and discover scientific problems, describe scientific laws, and have their own scientific opinions and unique insights. Their sense of honor and pride should be reflected in this aspect and be remembered for years, decades, and even centuries to come. We remember figures like Newton, Einstein, Planck and Pasteur because they made discoveries and summarized new laws, which is exactly what basic research demands.

Next, we will follow the important instructions on scientific and technological innovation and basic research given by the General Secretary. We will implement the guiding principles of his speech at the group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee. We will focus on major original innovations and build platforms for developing goal-oriented basic research, market-oriented applied basic research, as well as basic research based on free exploration. In doing so, we will allow everyone to have a stage to showcase their abilities and unleash their imagination and intelligence. First, we will strengthen frontier-oriented exploratory basic research. Looking forward and taking the next step is always a challenging task. Second, we need to promote strategy-oriented systematic basic research. The CPC Central Committee has proposed some major strategic goals, and it is necessary to support these goals with science and technology. The 20th CPC National Congress has made a series of plans for building a great modern socialist country, such as building up China's strength in education, aerospace, and transportation. It is necessary to provide talent and technological support to achieve these goals. We must strengthen the systematic layout of strategy-oriented basic research, just like "linking pearls into a necklace." Third, we will advance market-oriented applied basic research. We need to identify problems found in the application, get to the source of the problem, and work to find answers and methods.

At the same time, we need to optimize the structure of fundamental disciplines and support the penetration and diffusion of science and technology into various sectors. We also need to recognize that the real hope of science and technology lies in the younger generation of scientists. Therefore, we should provide more opportunities and a broader stage for young scientists to unleash their intelligence, shoulder primary responsibilities, and make significant contributions, thereby gaining recognition from the scientific community.

Finally, I want to say that basic research is a process that requires people to devote themselves wholeheartedly to research, which often means boldly exploring an entirely new field where no one has ventured before. It can be difficult to see which direction to take while pursuing development in basic research. Proceeding requires a strong foundation of scientific knowledge, excellent scientific thinking, and analytical skills. Some explorations may fail. Due to the low probability of success in scientific research, especially in scientific discoveries, scientists must be prepared for failure and persist in the face of setbacks. From the perspective of attitude and methods, the path of science is always rocky, and success is not guaranteed. An ancient saying states, "it's better to be diligent than too clever." It means that people need to be hardworking and challenge themselves constantly. Only then can they achieve significant results after persistent long-term efforts. I want to invite friends from the media to pay more attention to basic research, as well as science and technology. We should guide the public to value science and technology from a young age, encourage them to learn and make the best use of science and technology, and eventually become someone who understands and even takes pride in their involvement in science and technology. Thank you.

Zhejiang Daily:

For enterprises, innovation concerns their long-term development. The report to the 20th CPC National Congress proposed reinforcing enterprises' principal role in scientific and technological innovation. Concerning that, what will the MOST do? We are interested in whether there are any policies and measures to support enterprises, especially sci-tech enterprises. Thank you.

Wang Zhigang:

Thank you for your question. This question is fundamental; we will have Mr. Wu Zhaohui answer it.

Wu Zhaohui:

The 20th CPC National Congress made a clear decision about reinforcing the principal role of enterprises in scientific and technological innovation. The change from enterprises assuming a predominant role in technological innovation to the central role in scientific and technological innovation demonstrates at least two facts. One is that increased importance is attached to the role of enterprises in the national innovation system. The other is that enterprises will play a more prominent role in whole-chain innovation. Enterprises will not only maintain the principal role in technological innovation, application of scientific and technological achievements, and incubation of industries but will also play a greater role in basic and application-oriented research. Making enterprises play the principal role in scientific and technological innovation is a natural requirement for building greater scientific and technological strength, which can be interpreted from two perspectives. From the perspective of enterprises, as the basic unit of economic activity, they are geared toward diverse market needs and sensitive to product innovation and industrial innovation. At the same time, scientific and technological needs mainly come from enterprises, and they facilitate the commercialization of scientific and technological advances. Therefore, from this perspective, enterprises are the most dynamic force of innovation.

The second perspective is that science and technology support high-quality development. China has entered the stage of innovation-driven high-quality development, which requires enterprises, as a critical point linking innovation chains and industrial chains, to play an adhesive or even a leading role in removing impediments along the links of basic research, technological and industrial innovation. At the same time, it also requires enterprises to make more efforts in basic research, application-oriented research and research and development (R&D) on pioneering technologies, which is also the general practice and successful experience of major leading countries in science and technology.

Setting our sights on greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, we need enterprises to take on greater responsibilities. Confronted with new requirements in the future, whether enterprises can genuinely play the principal role in innovation depends on whether they can lead more universities and research institutions to jointly accomplish and promote high-level goal-oriented research and development. It also depends on whether enterprises can establish an incentive mechanism for innovation to attract more high-level talents and jointly create market value. Moreover, it also depends on whether these enterprises will cooperate internationally and whether they can achieve win-win outcomes through opening up and innovation. In the final analysis, the solution to these key problems depends on raising enterprises' capacity for scientific and technological innovation, and ultimately, market validation is needed to test the innovation capacity of enterprises. Therefore, only through innovation can development be achieved.

According to the deployments and requirements of the CPC Central Committee, the MOST has continued to make efforts on policies, production factors and projects to support enterprises to improve innovation capacity. Specifically, stronger support has been given to decision-making, investment in R&D, scientific research organization, and the application of scientific and technological advances. Next, focusing on "reinforcement in four aspects," we will continue to enhance the principal role of enterprises in scientific and technological innovation.

First, we will reinforce the principal role of enterprises in decision-making on scientific and technological innovation. We will continue to facilitate greater and wider participation of enterprises in national scientific and technological innovation decision-making. Specifically, we will recruit science and technology experts from the business community into the national pool of science and technology experts, establish the advisory meeting system of entrepreneurs on scientific and technological innovation, and guide enterprises to carry out R&D in combination with major national strategies.

Second, we will reinforce the principal role of enterprises in R&D investment. According to statistics, enterprises' investment in R&D in 2022 accounted for over three-fourths of the total investment in R&D across China, which is a very good trend. We will continue to support enterprises to increase their investment in R&D and advance the implementation of policies on granting additional tax deductions for R&D costs and others. At the same time, we will set up a working mechanism for offering financial support to the innovation of enterprises to remove barriers along the scientific, technological, industrial and financial chains.

Third, we will reinforce the principle role of enterprises in organizing scientific research. About 80% of key national science and technology R&D programs are participated in or led by enterprises. We will continue to work on that to enable more enterprises to take the lead in organizing national science and technology programs. We will also encourage more enterprises to identify their needs in science and technology, giving play to the role of enterprises in setting the questions, providing the answers, and reviewing the results.

Fourth, we will reinforce the principal role of enterprises in the commercialization and application of scientific and technological advances. In 2022, the volume of contracted technology transactions reached 4.8 trillion yuan, and enterprises contributed over 80% of contracted technology absorption. That is an excellent signal. We will further optimize policies to increase enterprises' capacity for absorbing and commercializing scientific and technological advances. Meanwhile, we will promote effective interaction between the technology trading market and technology transfer institutions to build a high-quality and high-standard technology market to pool together all kinds of scientific and technological advances at the enterprise level. 

At last, let me emphasize again that innovation has nothing to do with its origins. All enterprises, big or small, state-owned or private, should enjoy equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal rules in the process of innovation. The MOST will provide better services and stronger support and create fair and equitable policy environments for enterprises to enhance their innovation capacity and enable them to make greater contributions to innovation. Indeed, while prioritizing enterprises' principal role in scientific and technological innovation, we will also give full play to the role of research institutes and universities. Thank you.

Wang Zhigang:

It is an essential requirement for enterprises to hold the principal position in scientific and technological innovation. China is now a socialist market economy, and enterprises are the main participants of market economies. To strengthen our science and technology to provide support for China's high-quality development, and to become a great modern country, enterprises must play a principal role. In this process, it is a requirement for the enterprises themselves to continuously improve their own independent scientific and technological capabilities. At the same time, support from the state is also an opportunity, which is an inevitable requirement for development. This year we will also work together with relevant departments, localities and high-tech enterprises. Over the years, we have done a lot of work. The number of high-tech enterprises has reached 400,000, and the number of small- and medium-sized high-tech enterprises has reached 500,000. Their R&D investment accounts for 68% of the national enterprise R&D investment. They are the pioneers of new industries and new markets, and a central pillar to ensure the healthy development of national enterprises and industries. This force needs to be further expanded and improved, both in terms of scale and quality. Thank you.

Reuters: 

Recently, ChatGPT has evoked widespread response in China. I would like to ask how the MOST views this kind of AI-driven technology. In terms of supervision, what considerations does the MOST have? Thank you.

Wang Zhigang:

Thank you for your question. ChatGPT is a hot topic. I'd like to invite Mr. Chen Jiachang to answer your question.

Chen Jiachang:

As a strategic emerging technology, AI has increasingly become an important driving force for technological innovation, industrial upgrading and improving productivity. Human-computer dialogue based on natural language understanding is an important direction for the development of AI. The ChatGPT application you mentioned has recently become a phenomenon, showing a high level of human-computer interaction. It also shows that the large natural language model already has some characteristics progressing towards artificial general intelligence (AGI) and has broad application potential in many industries.

In terms of AI development trends, there are two very obvious characteristics. First, AI has a penetrating, spreading and disruptive impact on social and economic development. Especially in the fields of scientific research, AI provides new methods and new approaches for some research in biological science, materials science and energy studies, and is leading the paradigm shift in scientific research. Second, driven by the internet, big data, supercomputing, intelligent computing, and brain and cognition-related technologies, AI technology is developing rapidly, showing a trend of group breakthroughs. The paradigm of "intelligence +" has been widely used in manufacturing, transportation, medical care and other fields. In some "dark factories ," the process is highly automated with no human intervention, which greatly improves the energy efficiency of production. In the medical field, the AI-assisted diagnosis and treatment system covers more than 3,000 common diseases and has been applied in more than 27,000 community-level medical institutions, showing that AI has achieved far-reaching penetration.

In terms of China's plan for developing R&D and the progress it has made, the Chinese government places great importance on AI. In 2017, the State Council introduced a development plan for the new generation of AI. Under the guidance of this plan, the MOST set up an office for advancing AI development, a strategic advisory committee, and a committee for AI governance. Over the past two years, the ministry has also introduced the Governance Principles for the New Generation Artificial Intelligence, and Ethical Norms for New Generation Artificial Intelligence. Key scientific and research projects on AI have been launched. We have established the "one body, two wings" R&D structure, with basic software and hardware as the "main body" and basic theories and innovative application as the "two wings." We have collaborated with leading companies to establish a number of open innovation platforms for AI, aimed at supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and accelerating technological advancement across the industry. We have established 18 national innovation pilot zones, encouraging localities to introduce application scenarios with their own characteristics in line with local conditions. Our efforts have yielded significant progress. Domestic scholars have proposed the concept of "neuromorphic completeness ," and developed the heterogeneous fusion brain-inspired computing chip. Additionally, domestic scientific research institutions have developed a Chinese multi-modal pre-training model and omni-perception pre-trainer , which are among the most technologically advanced in the world.

Going forward, the MOST will recognize AI as an emerging industry of strategic importance and a new driving force for the economy. We will continue to provide support in the following aspects: First, we will work to build an open and coordinated system for AI innovation, accelerate basic theoretical studies and achieve breakthroughs in key technologies. Second, we will further integrate AI into social and economic development, improve our technologies in major application scenarios, and foster the market. Third, we will promote the development of a safe and manageable governance system. Fourth, we will advance open cooperation on AI in all areas. Thank you.

Wang Zhigang:

I would like to add that ChatGPT is indeed quite popular. Mr. Chen just briefed us on the relevant information. The journalist's questions mainly cover two aspects: how to view ChatGPT and how to deal with ethical issues. While promoting the development of AI, we should also take into account the need to strengthen ethical norms. ChatGPT itself is a large model which is based on a large amount of data, powerful computing capacity and highly efficient algorithms. As mentioned earlier, there have been advances in natural language understanding and processing, as well as the effective integration of algorithms, data and computing power.

For all new technologies, including AI, China has taken targeted measures in terms of ethics to avoid potential risks and better leverage the benefits of technology. Thank you. 

China Daily:

The report to the 20th CPC National Congress stressed the importance of expanding international exchanges and cooperation on science and technology, fostering an environment that is conducive to scientific research and up to international standards, and building an open and globally competitive ecosystem for innovation. In light of this, what plans does the MOST have for future international sci-tech cooperation? Thank you.

Zhang Guangjun: 

Science and technology play a crucial role in today's world and their significance has been recognized worldwide. The Chinese government is committed to expanding sci-tech cooperation. In the course of reform and opening-up, China has taken the lead in strengthening sci-tech openness. As Mr. Wang mentioned in his opening remarks, China is both an important participant in international frontier innovation and a significant contributor to solving global problems. I will address your question from three aspects:

First, we will actively promote new progress in mutually beneficial inter-governmental cooperation. We have established sci-tech partnerships with over 160 countries and regions, signed 116 inter-governmental sci-tech cooperation agreements and built a new pattern of comprehensive, multi-tiered and wide-ranging sci-tech cooperation. In 2022, sci-tech cooperation contributed significantly to head-of-state diplomacy and major national diplomatic events, producing a range of important cooperation outcomes. Additionally, we held 48 inter-governmental cooperation conferences on science and technology, and signed and renewed 25 sci-tech cooperation agreements. We have conducted in-depth, practical and effective cooperation with a number of countries in various fields such as the science-based fight against epidemic, as well as biodiversity, climate change and clean energy. The progress we achieved in areas such as poverty alleviation through scientific and technological efforts, innovation and entrepreneurship, technology transfer, and space information and services have benefited more countries and people, and further promoted sci-tech cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Second, we will actively engage in the global governance system, focusing on proposing China's approach and making contributions to addressing common challenges facing humanity. We will take the initiative in establishing the global sci-tech innovation agenda, including promoting international cooperation on pandemic through sci-tech efforts, building the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Center , launching the "Green Power Future Mission" and developing plans for international sci-tech cooperation on achieving carbon neutrality. Major international science programs and projects initiated by Chinese scientists have made significant progress. In addition, Chinese scientists have made great achievements in other major science programs and projects, such as nuclear fusion reactors and the Square Kilometer Array radio telescope. China has become increasingly influential in important international sci-tech organizations, with improved contributions, voice and leadership.

Third, we have further stepped up efforts in science and technology opening-up, fostering a sound environment for openness and innovation. We have established a pilot fund that is globally oriented to support scientific research, which allows foreign scientists to lead and participate in China's national science and technology programs. This will encourage scientists from all over the world to conduct research jointly on major issues and enhance their capacity to address the problems of mankind. At the same time, we have rolled out several more open and effective policies concerning the work and life of foreigners and foreign talents in China. We have encouraged and supported Chinese research institutes, universities, enterprises, local governments and researchers to actively engage in international cooperation and exchanges. This will realize the dual drive by the government and the private sector and promote people-to-people exchanges, integration of ideas, unimpeded connectivity of production factors, and connectivity of facilities.

The 20th CPC National Congress has provided a clear direction for international innovation and cooperation in science and technology. Next, we will further strengthen the leading role of head-of-state diplomacy, actively integrate into the global innovation network, strengthen the interconnection between governments, and deepen people-to-people exchanges. We will also expand the scope and depth of international exchanges and cooperation in science and technology, establish new platforms for international science and technology exchanges and cooperation in key regions, countries and sectors, and adopt several institutional policy reforming measures at the International Center for Science and Technology Innovation, and further open up our science and technology programs to the world. Going forward, China's door of opening-up and cooperation for science and technology will only open wider. We will work hand in hand with other countries to contribute more Chinese wisdom and strength to promoting human progress and building a better world while carrying out the mission of innovation in science and technology to build a global community with a shared future . Thank you.

Red Star News:

Innovation in science and technology is rooted in people. Therefore, what progress has the MOST made in training and developing scientists and technologists? Additionally, what impact has reducing the workload of researchers had? Furthermore, what measures will be taken to stimulate innovation and development potential of researchers, particularly young talents? Thank you.

Xie Min:

The essence of innovation-driven development is talent-driven development. Talent serves as the fundamental element and the starting point as well. All science and technology innovation activities revolve around talented individuals. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, China has been continuously deepening the reform of talent assessment, improving the incentive mechanism for science and technology, thereby fully unleashing the vitality of talent. The MOST has always placed human resources development in science and technology high on the agenda, giving priority to addressing the concerns, thoughts, and expectations of scientists and technologists. We have created a favorable ecological environment for innovation in science and technology and made good progress in human resources development in science and technology.

First, talent development has achieved a simultaneous improvement in both quantity and quality. In 2022, the full-time equivalent of R&D personnel in China exceeded 6 million person-years, maintaining the world's first position for many years. The structure of the talent pool has been further optimized, with more leading talents and high-level innovation teams emerging, including more outstanding young scientists and technologists. The ability and role of science and technology talent in supporting high-quality development have been significantly enhanced.

Second, the systems and mechanisms for stimulating the vitality of science and technology talent are increasingly improving. Last year, China issued the Opinions on Improving the Incentive Mechanism for Science and Technology to strengthen incentives for missions and contributions. The MOST has worked with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Education, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences to solve the problems and difficulties encountered by scientists and technologists and supported them by easing their burden, and providing encouragement. We have deepened reforms in evaluations of programs, human resources, and organizations. We have rolled out many measures to reduce the reliance on papers, education, qualifications and awards in title assessment and emphasized moral character, ability, performance and contribution. We have continued our efforts to reduce their burden and introduced more than 10 specific measures, such as reducing application forms for projects, simplifying expense claim procedures, and streamlining organizations.

We have taken further steps to enhance the development of young science and technology talent by implementing new initiatives in five aspects, namely, encouraging them to take on greater responsibilities, providing more opportunities, reducing evaluations, giving them more free time, and improving their physical and mental health. Our support enables them to play a significant role in their work. Over 80% of researchers participating in key national R&D projects are under the age of 45. 

Third, we have accelerated the internationalization of our science and technology talent pool. International talent exchanges help promote the spread and sharing of knowledge. China is also a fertile land for innovation among international scientists and technologists. We have implemented a more open talent policies and facilitated the work and life of foreign talent in China. With a focus on sustainable development, we have launched joint R&D plans and innovation, and engaged in collaborative research with more than 50 countries and regions, building a hub for attracting and nurturing outstanding talent in scientific research and innovation.

Next, in accordance with the decisions of the 20th CPC National Congress and the guiding principles of the Central Conference on Talent-related Work, the MOST will continue to take coordinated action in education development, innovation in science and technology, and human resources development. We will further implement the workforce development strategy in the new era. With the goal to accelerate the building of a world-class talent center and innovation hub, we will strengthen national mission-oriented development and coordinate domestic and international human resources. We will also work to reform the systems and mechanisms of science and technology to strengthen services, guarantees, and incentives, and create a favorable environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. We will build a large, well-structured and high-caliber pool of human resources in science and technology to provide strong talent support for China's high-level scientific and technological self-reliance. Thank you.

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:  

The number of new- and high-tech development zones in China has nearly doubled compared with a decade ago. Successful outcomes from pilot reforms of national innovation demonstration zones have also been made, giving rise to practices applicable to other areas. Can you exemplify and elaborate on the situation in this field? What measures will be taken next to better leverage such zones' role in leading the development of their surrounding areas? Thank you.

Wu Zhaohui:

Establishing national new- and high-tech development zones and innovation demonstration zones are major strategic plans made by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council. The first national new- and high-tech development zone was approved in 1988, and the strategic direction of "developing advanced science and technology, realizing industrialization" has since been established. The national innovation demonstration zones, established in 2009, further carried out trial and reform work focusing on independent innovation. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, 177 national new- and high-tech development zones and 23 national innovation demonstration zones across China have fully implemented the requirements to pursue high-quality development and innovation. They have played an important role in leading the development of their surrounding areas. They have blazed a path of new- and high-tech industrialization with Chinese characteristics. They have also become a pilot for sci-tech institutional reforms, a pacesetter for innovation-driven development, and a pioneer for high-quality development. In 2022, new- and high-tech development and innovation demonstration zones sustained dynamic growth momentum and contributed 13.6% of the nation's GDP. They also rank among the highest in terms of energy conservation. Their energy consumption per 10,000 yuan of industrial-added value was two-thirds of the national average. These two kinds of zones also play a vital role in stabilizing economic growth.

A review of the development of new- and high-tech development zones and innovation demonstration zones over the past decade shows that this sector's significant achievements and breakthroughs lie in high-quality development and innovation. The high-quality development of these two kinds of zones can be seen in the following three aspects. First, high-quality innovation resources have been pooled at an accelerated pace. The R&D spending of national new- and high-tech development zones accounts for nearly half of the investment in R&D by domestic enterprises. The number of valid invention patents possessed by enterprises in such zones also accounts for nearly half of the nation's total. These zones are also home to nearly half of the national-level innovation platforms. Second, high-growth enterprises keep emerging. National new- and high-tech development zones have attracted over one-third of domestic sci-tech SMEs, one-third of domestic new- and high-tech enterprises, and two-thirds of companies listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange Science and Technology Innovation Board. Third, high-end industries continue to grow. For example, the industrial scale of information and communication technology (ICT) in Beijing's Zhongguancun national high-tech industrial development zone accounts for 17% of the nation's total. The size of the biomedical industry in 36 new- and high-tech development zones in the Yangtze River Delta exceeds half of the nation's total. The innovation demonstration zones in the Pearl River Delta have developed a group of trillion-yuan industrial clusters such as those involving advanced materials. All these three aspects speak volumes about the significant achievements of new- and high-tech development zones.

In addition, innovation is another achievement of new- and high-tech development zones and innovation demonstration zones, and it can also be summarized in three aspects. First, new- and high-tech development zones have become the birthplace of major original outcomes. For example, the first AI chip and the first prototype superconducting quantum computer were all made in such areas. Meanwhile, new- and high-tech development zones have also become major hubs for exploring new development paths and nurturing future-oriented industries. For instance, new business forms involving smart robots, satellite navigation, and cell and gene therapy were born in such areas. The second aspect is reform. Innovation demonstration zones have always led the way in reform, and all 23 such zones have rolled out a series of original and guiding policies to promote independent innovation. For example, Beijing's Zhongguancun national high-tech industrial development zone carried out pilot programs to give more autonomy in using research funding. It also introduced reform measures allowing enterprises to use scientific research outcomes before paying related research institutions. These popular moves have created a sound social atmosphere featuring innovation and business ventures. The third aspect is about innovative measures for opening up. Both new- and high-tech development zones and innovation demonstration zones value globalized development. Over 70% of new- and high-tech development zones have introduced policies regarding international matters. They have also established over 2,200 R&D institutions overseas, which facilitates a new pattern of opening up and cooperation.

Regarding the plans for new- and high-tech development zones and innovation demonstration zones, we will follow the general requirements of fully implementing the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress. We will further underscore the strategic position of these zones, enhance brand-building and improve development capacity. We will continue to make efforts in the following three aspects. First, we will keep reaching new heights based on our achievements. We will continue developing world-class enterprises and industrial clusters, enhancing the capacity for original invention and nurturing future-oriented industries to create an upgraded version of high-quality new- and high-tech development zones and national innovation demonstration zones in the new era. Second, we will keep deepening reform. Reform measures for national innovation demonstration zones have long played a leading role. We will further scale up efforts to implement innovation demonstration zone piloting and reform measures. Reform efforts in the next step will focus on two aspects: high-level sci-tech self-reliance and a high-level ecosystem for innovation and business ventures. Third, we will continue to coordinate our efforts. We will further enhance coordination between new- and high-tech development and innovation demonstration zones and tap the innovation potential of such coordination. We will create a strategic cluster to support building an innovative country and a strategic pivot to integrate into a global innovation network. We will follow the strategic direction of these three aspects, further enhance the brand-building of both kinds of zones with the aim of high-quality development and innovation, and contribute to building China's strength in science and technology. Thank you.

Chen Wenjun:

Due to the time limit, this will be the last question.

China Media Group:

The 20th CPC National Congress made comprehensive and systematic arrangements for improving systems for scientific and technological innovation . What has the MST done to boost the overall performance of China's innovation system , and what are the plans going forward? Thank you. 

Wang Zhigang:

Overall, China's innovation system is based on science, has improved, and performs well. Yet it needs constant upgrading. That is because China has transformed from making breakthroughs in some science and technology to achieving general advances. Science and technology have been central to the country's overall development.

The strength of a major country relies on its capacity for sci-tech innovation. We often say that the relationship between capacity and achievements, as well as products, is dominated by capacity. Capacity is the cause that leads to products. Therefore, one can only do what is within their capabilities. Increasing our capability is our starting point and focus, and we need to do this in accordance with the national strategy. Now, we are positioned to join the ranks of the world's most innovative countries and build China into a leading country in science and technology, developing China into a great modern country. To this end, what is important is to have systematic capacity instead of capacity in a single area. How can we improve and upgrade our ability? How can we make the innovation system sounder? A significant answer is reform. This is a key measure. Reform is needed to continuously improve the innovation system and capacity for sci-tech innovation to build China into a country of innovators. During these years, we have always kept the following in mind: reform drives innovation, and innovation drives development. Sci-tech institutional and mechanical innovation also constitutes a type of reform needed to improve the national innovation system with Chinese characteristics.

First, we will focus on national strategic goals and promote organized scientific research to form a systematic landscape. To promote systematic sci-tech innovation, we must set our sights on the global frontiers of science and technology, national economic development, the country's major needs, and people's health and safety . We have fully motivated scientific researchers by cooperating with the relevant departments. We have taken measures such as easing burdens, choosing the best through fair selection, and opening a competition mechanism to select the best candidates to undertake key research projects . We support scientific researchers in their genuine, unwavering devotion. We have adopted a level- and category-based management approach and proposed corresponding measures to make the national innovation system more efficient. Reform uncovers and solves problems through scientific research practices, further improving institutions.  

Second, we will stay mission-oriented. Building China into a country of innovators, a leading country in science and technology and a great modern country is a great goal for us and an essential mission for sci-tech innovation. We must concentrate on the mission, improve the ability system, consolidate national strategic sci-tech strength, and cultivate pro-innovation environments in the policy, law, cultural and social fields. In addition, allocating scientific research resources and ways of sci-tech appraisal should also be constantly reformed and improved to fulfill the mission.

Third, we will create an environment that encourages innovation. The innovators are not governments but universities, scientific research institutions, national labs, enterprises, and all other participants in society. These participants are willing to devote themselves to science and technology, conduct scientific research, and can secure achievements. We will strive to develop a favorable ecosystem in such fields as law, policy, culture and society to make more people interested in sci-tech innovation, understand and participate in it, and take it as their own noble cause of life. We must strive to improve the national innovation system.  

Fourth, we will coordinate the innovation layout. Unbalanced and inadequate development remains a major problem in China. The eastern, central and western regions, as well as urban and rural areas, are all different. However, all eagerly seek and hope to participate in science and technology. We need to take this into full account while making the layout. Universities, scientific research institutions, national labs, and enterprises have different roles to play. We need to let various innovators pinpoint their roles in the national innovation system, play their roles, and support and serve national goals through their sci-tech innovation practices. The national innovation system needs to coordinate basic research, application-oriented basic research, technological innovation, sci-tech applications and high-tech industrialization, and connect every link to make them perform efficiently and jointly support building China into an international leader in science and technology. In addition, diverse resources must be coordinated and allocated efficiently. All the resources of platforms, funds, the workforce and policies should be pooled to achieve national strategic goals, especially to build China into a leading country in science and technology. All the dimensions and links involved in every dimension form the innovation system. To support building China into a country of innovators and a leading country in science and technology and further to develop China into a great modern country, we need to serve the national strategic goals and interconnect various innovation activities toward the goals. In addition, we must constantly improve the national innovation system and make it perform more efficiently, and fully arouse the dynamism, vitality, and initiative of sci-tech personnel. We will encourage scientific researchers to realize their value through their work and contribute to scientific development to achieve a sense of honor in society. All of these are the focuses of our work. 

The MST will further study, grasp and implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress, especially its arrangements for sci-tech innovation, in all our work to let science and technology play a real, irreplaceable role in China's modernization drive. 

I hope our media friends care about and support our sci-tech work. Not only before the annual two sessions, but at other times, I hope you can pay more attention to, support and advocate science and technology. In addition, I hope you can guide society to pay attention to and support sci-tech development, talent and empowerment so that science and technology can better lead development and drive it to an even higher level. Thank you. 

Chen Wenjun:

Thanks to Mr. Wang and the other speakers, as well as friends from the media. Today's briefing has now concluded. 

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Wang Qian, Zhang Jiaqi, Liu Sitong, Cui Can, Yuan Fang, Xu Kailin, Wang Yanfang, Yan Bin, Huang Shan, Zhou Jing, Duan Yaying, Zhang Rui, Zhu Bochen, Wang Yiming, Ma Yujia, Li Huiru, David Ball, Tom Arnsten, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.