People's Daily Commentator: Unswervingly Enhance China's Original Innovation Capability

Xinhua News Agency, Beijing, May 3 — a commentary article in the People’s Daily on May 4指出 that improving original innovation capability should be made an important direction for strengthening basic research. Efforts should continue around the critical period of the “15th FiveYear Plan” to promote integrated development of education, science and technology, and talent, strengthen support and safeguards for basic research, and deepen international exchanges and cooperation. The article argues that original innovation is the source of scientific and technological innovation. In recent years, under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee, China has achieved a number of original results in cuttingedge fields such as quantum technology, materials science, physical science, bioscience, space science, and artificial intelligence. Basic research and original innovation capabilities have been continuously strengthened. However, in the face of international scientific and technological competition and the needs of highquality development, key technological problems still need to be solved at the source. The article also emphasizes that the key to improving original innovation capability lies in talent, and it also depends on institutional and resource support. We should follow the laws governing talent growth, identify and nurture talent at the front lines of scientific research, support young researchers, and at the same time vigorously promote the spirit of scientists, create a research environment that encourages innovation and devoted study, and provide stronger support for building China into a science and technology powerhouse.