Xi Jinping attended the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the Joint Academic Conference of the Academies of Sciences and Engineering, and the China Association for Science and Technology.
The Eleventh National Congress and delivered an important speech.

2026-07-08 Source: “Study in China” Learning Platform

The National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the Academicians’ Conference of the Two Academies, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were held in Beijing.

Xi Jinping delivered an important speech, emphasizing that the 15th Five-Year Plan period represents a critical phase for building China into a science and technology powerhouse. We must seize historic opportunities, rise to the challenges of our times, and accelerate efforts to achieve high-level scientific and technological self-reliance and strength, steadily advancing toward the goal of establishing China as a leading science and technology nation by 2035, and firmly using scientific and technological innovation to underpin and lead Chinese‑style modernization.

Li Qiang presided over the meeting; Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, and Li Xi attended; Ding Xuexiang read out the decision on awarding honors.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the conferences and delivered an important speech. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Shen Hong.

BEIJING, July 8 (Xinhua) — The National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened this morning at the Great Hall of the People. Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the ceremonies, presented awards to recipients of the State Supreme Science and Technology Award, and delivered an important speech. He emphasized that the period of the 15th Five-Year Plan represents a critical phase in building China into a science and technology powerhouse. It is imperative to seize historic opportunities, meet the challenges of our times, accelerate efforts to achieve high-level scientific and technological self-reliance and strength, and advance steadily toward the goal of becoming a leading science and technology nation by 2035, thereby providing solid support and guidance for Chinese-style modernization through innovation.

Li Qiang presided over the conference, while Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, and Li Xi attended. Ding Xuexiang read out the decision on awards.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and others attended the events. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Xie Huanchi.

At 10:30 a.m., the conference commenced, with the entire audience rising to their feet and singing the national anthem.

Ding Xuexiang read out the Decision of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council on the 2025 National Science and Technology Awards.

As the ceremonial trumpets sounded, Xi Jinping first presented medals and certificates to Academician Chen Li-quan of the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Academician Ben De of the 14th Research Institute of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation—both recipients of the 2025 National Supreme Science and Technology Award—and warmly shook their hands to extend his congratulations. Subsequently, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two top award winners, conferred certificates upon representatives who had been honored with the National Natural Science Award, the National Invention Award, the National Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, presented awards to Academician Chen Li-quan of the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (right), and Academician Ben De of the 14th Research Institute of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (left), who were honored with the 2025 National Highest Science and Technology Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Yan Yan.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, presented the 2025 National Highest Science and Technology Award to Academician Chen Li-quan of the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Yan Yan.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, presented the 2025 National Supreme Science and Technology Award to Academician Ben De of the 14th Research Institute of the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Yan Yan.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the ceremony, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Xie Huanchi.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the ceremony, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Xie Huanchi.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the ceremony, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Xie Huanchi.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the event, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Huang Jingwen.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the event, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Huang Jingwen.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the event, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Huang Jingwen.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. At the event, Xi Jinping and other Party and state leaders, together with the two recipients of the highest honors, presented certificates to representatives who had been awarded the State Natural Science Award, the State Technological Invention Award, the State Science and Technology Progress Award, and the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Huang Jingwen.

Amid warm applause, Xi Jinping delivered an important address. He pointed out that since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the CPC Central Committee has placed scientific and technological innovation at the forefront of modernization, systematically mapped out a blueprint for building a science and technology powerhouse, vigorously advanced the implementation of the innovation-driven development strategy, and comprehensively deepened reforms of the science and technology system, thereby enabling China’s scientific and technological endeavors to achieve historic accomplishments and undergo historic transformations. China is accelerating its transition from a global participant and contributor in science and technology to a pioneer and leader, becoming one of the countries with the fastest‑rising innovative capacity.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the conferences and delivered an important speech. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Shen Hong.

Xi Jinping emphasized that the new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation is profoundly reshaping human modes of production and life, as well as the global development landscape. We must adapt to the new circumstances and requirements, adopt more robust measures, effectively address the problems hindering China’s scientific and technological development, and ensure the thorough implementation of all directives issued by the CPC Central Committee on advancing science and technology.

Xi Jinping pointed out that it is necessary to strengthen the capacity for systematic, coordinated efforts in scientific and technological innovation and to enhance the overall effectiveness of the national innovation system. Upholding the strategic orientation of “four orientations,” we must further improve coordination across such areas as science and technology strategic planning, policy measures, major tasks, research resources, resource platforms, and regional innovation. We will refine the mechanisms for deploying and implementing major national scientific and technological innovation initiatives and bolster independent self-sufficiency in basic research infrastructure. We will optimize the functional positioning and spatial layout of the nation’s strategic scientific and technological forces, promoting task synergy, resource sharing, and complementary strengths. Moreover, we will strengthen unified guidance over scientific and technological work at all levels, establishing institutional arrangements that foster central–local collaboration and inter‑regional coordination.

Xi Jinping emphasized the need to foster deep integration between scientific and technological innovation and industrial innovation, thereby paving the way for accelerating the translation of scientific advances into real-world productive forces. Scientific and technological innovation must be firmly oriented toward practical applications, while industrial innovation should generate well‑defined scientific questions. We will strengthen the national technology transfer system, develop diversified application scenarios and high‑level industrial clusters, and promote the widespread adoption and iterative upgrading of domestically developed technologies and products. We will also improve the intellectual property protection regime and establish a science‑and‑technology finance framework that is aligned with the demands of innovation.

Xi Jinping pointed out that the future of science lies with the youth, and that we must optimize mechanisms for collaborative education between science and education to vigorously cultivate outstanding young scientific and technological talent. We should increase support for researchers, help them overcome practical difficulties, and enable them to devote themselves wholeheartedly to their work, feeling secure in their careers and lives. At the same time, we must focus on identifying and nurturing the interests, talents, scientific literacy, and experimental skills of young people, attracting more adolescents with scientific potential to aspire to dedicate themselves to the cause of science and technology.

Xi Jinping emphasized the need to enhance the effectiveness of investment in scientific and technological innovation, achieving a balance between expanding the scale of investment and improving its efficiency. He called for refining the mechanisms for allocating, managing, and utilizing central government funding for science and technology, and for establishing a sound system of shared responsibility between the central and local governments in financing major scientific and technological initiatives. Furthermore, he urged improvements in the management of science and technology programs, strengthened oversight and inspection of projects, and enhanced performance evaluation. Finally, he encouraged enterprises to increase their R&D spending and mobilized broader societal resources to support scientific and technological innovation.

Xi Jinping pointed out that it is necessary to deepen reform of the science and technology evaluation system and make effective use of evaluation as a guiding instrument. Project reviews, institutional assessments, and talent evaluations should all place greater emphasis on innovation capability, quality, practical results, and contributions. We must accelerate efforts to dismantle the “four sole criteria” and continue to strengthen governance of academic titles and designations in the science and education sectors. At the same time, we should vigorously promote the spirit of scientists, enhance research integrity, and foster a clean and upright research environment.

Xi Jinping emphasized the need to strengthen governance of scientific and technological ethics and security, ensuring that science and technology advance in a positive, responsible, safe, and controllable manner, thereby benefiting the people. He called for improving policies, systems, laws, regulations, and governance norms, and for establishing sound institutional mechanisms that foster multi‑stakeholder participation and collaborative governance. It is essential to clarify ethical standards and guidelines in key areas, enhance risk assessment, monitoring, early warning, and emergency response in the field of science and technology security, and engage more deeply in global science and technology governance while widely promoting China’s vision and solutions.

Xi Jinping pointed out that fostering the vigorous development of China’s science and technology requires the concerted efforts of the entire Party and society. Party committees and governments at all levels must place scientific and technological work high on their agendas, uphold and practice a correct view of political achievements, pursue concrete results through diligent and pragmatic work, and sustain long-term efforts to continuously deliver new and tangible outcomes. The Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering should unite the national scientific and technological community, seize the direction of the new round of scientific and technological revolution, and courageously scale the heights of global science. The China Association for Science and Technology must persist in exploration and innovation, dedicating itself wholeheartedly to serving scientific and technological workers, supporting innovation-driven development, enhancing the public’s scientific literacy, and providing sound scientific advice to the Party and the government.

Xi Jinping stated that he hopes academicians of the two academies will cherish their honor and strive unremittingly, playing a leading and exemplary role in pioneering cutting-edge scientific and technological frontiers, undertaking major missions, nurturing young talent, and upholding the spirit of scientists. He also expressed the hope that the broader community of science and technology workers will carry forward the fine tradition of serving the country and benefiting the people, and make new contributions to building China into a strong nation in science and technology.

While presiding over the conference, Li Qiang pointed out that General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important speech fully affirmed the major achievements China has made in science and technology in recent years, profoundly analyzed the new circumstances facing scientific and technological development, and set forth clear requirements for further strengthening our sense of responsibility, urgency, and mission, and for earnestly implementing all the Party Central Committee’s plans and arrangements for the development of science and technology during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. General Secretary Xi Jinping’s speech is of high vision, profound thought, and rich substance; it is highly political, strategic, and guiding, and it has charted the course forward and provided fundamental guidance for advancing science and technology work in the new era. We must study and thoroughly grasp its essence, resolutely implement it, and ensure that our thinking and actions are aligned with the decisions and deployments of the Party Central Committee. In doing so, we will further bolster our resolve and confidence in carrying out science and technology work, and make new and even greater contributions to comprehensively advancing the cause of national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization.

At the meeting, Chen Liquan and Ben De delivered remarks on behalf of all the award recipients.

On the morning of July 8, the National Science and Technology Awards Conference, the 22nd Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the 18th Academician Conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology were solemnly convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Prior to the meetings, leaders including Xi Jinping warmly met with representatives who had received the National Science and Technology Awards and posed for a group photograph with them. Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Xie Huanchi.

Prior to the meeting, Xi Jinping and other leading comrades warmly met with representatives of the winners of the National Science and Technology Awards and posed for a group photo.

Some members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, secretaries of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, and leading comrades from the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and the Central Military Commission attended the conference.

Approximately 4,300 participants attended the conference, including principal officials from relevant central Party, government, military, and mass organizations; members of the Central Science and Technology Commission; members of the National Science and Technology Awards Committee; responsible officials from all provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the central government, cities separately listed in the national plan, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps; representatives of recipients of the National Science and Technology Awards; academicians of the two Academies; selected foreign academicians; and delegates to the 11th National Congress of the China Association for Science and Technology.

In 2025, the National Science and Technology Awards recognized a total of 258 projects and 11 science and technology experts. Specifically, two recipients were awarded the State Supreme Science and Technology Award; 51 projects received the State Natural Science Award, including 3 First-Class awards and 48 Second-Class awards; 58 projects were honored with the State Technological Invention Award, comprising 3 First-Class awards and 55 Second-Class awards; and 149 projects were granted the State Science and Technology Progress Award, including 3 Special Prizes, 13 First-Class awards, and 133 Second-Class awards. Additionally, nine foreign experts were presented with the People’s Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award.

Editor-in-charge: Ma Yingjuan