International Desk: Chinese President Xi Jinping has underscored the critical importance of fundamental research in strengthening China’s scientific and technological capabilities and advancing the country’s goal of becoming a global leader in innovation.

On Thursday morning, April 30, Xi Jinping—General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Chinese President, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission—attended a symposium in Shanghai on strengthening fundamental research and delivered an important speech.

Xi stated that fundamental research is the source of the entire scientific system and the key to solving all technological challenges. He called for strong and practical measures to enhance China’s original innovation capacity and consolidate the foundation for building a world-leading science and technology powerhouse.

He stressed the need to further improve the systematic planning of fundamental research by strengthening overall coordination and top-level design. According to Xi, clearer priorities must be established for major research directions and key scientific fields. He also highlighted the importance of reinforcing the leading role of national research institutions and top-tier universities, while encouraging and regulating the development of new types of research and development institutions.

Xi Jinping further emphasised the need for deeper integration among industry, academia, and research institutions under the leadership of the industrial sector. He called for building a strong innovation chain that links fundamental research, applied development, and the commercialisation of scientific achievements. At the same time, he urged greater focus on the coordinated advancement of basic disciplines and applied sciences.

The Chinese leader also stressed the importance of advancing education, technology, and talent development in an integrated manner. He called for building a strong team dedicated to fundamental research through effective talent cultivation, recruitment, and utilisation.

Xi further instructed relevant authorities to strengthen support and security mechanisms for fundamental research. He noted that the proportion of funding allocated to fundamental research within research and development budgets should be gradually increased, alongside the establishment of a diversified investment framework.

Highlighting the importance of international cooperation, Xi Jinping urged active participation in global innovation networks. He called for deeper international exchanges and collaborative research to address major scientific challenges related to climate change, energy, the environment, life sciences, and public health. He also encouraged China’s active involvement in global technological governance.

Source: Shuei-Touhid-Jinia, China Media Group.