President Hu addresses conference marking sci-tech association's 50th anniversary

Chinese President Hu Jintao called for stepped up efforts in turning China into an innovation-oriented country in Beijing on Monday.

Hu made the remarks when delivering a speech at a conference marking the 50th founding anniversary of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST).

Chinese President Hu Jintao delivers a speech at a conference marking the 50th founding anniversary of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) in Beijing, China, Dec. 15, 2008. [Xinhua Photo]

The president first expressed appreciation and respect to all Chinese scientists and those who work for the CAST, for their contribution towards the country's scientific development.

Hu said the galloping science and technology had become a key factor in the fierce competition in overall national strength among countries in the world.

The development of China and the Communist Party of China needs strong scientific and technological support, as well as self-innovation in the field of science and technologies, to turn China into an innovation-oriented country, he said.

Hu urged scientists across the country to learn the innovation spirit from their predecessors and colleagues who had developed the country's own atomic and hydrogen bombs, its man-made satellites, and led the manned space programs, to make further contributions in China's scientific development.

He also called for the CAST to continue to popularize science and technologies among the Chinese public, to encourage scientific innovation among the masses, and to inspire respect for the scientists from the whole society.

Scientist were the priceless asset of the country and the Party, Hu said, urging better services and support for the scientists when confronted with difficulties in their life.

Local governments and Party departments at all levels must also provide scientists with favorable working conditions, and attach more importance to the training of scientists, especially those capable of making original innovations, he said.

Top leaders also present at the conference's opening ceremony were Wu Bangguo, Wen Jiabao, Jia Qinglin, Li Changchun, Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang, He Guoqiang and Zhou Yongkang.

CAST President Han Qide and Minister of Science and Technology Wan Gang also addressed the event.

CAST is the country's biggest non-governmental organization for scientists, engineers and others working in the fields of science and technology. It was founded in September 1958.