The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee held a sector-based consultation meeting on Sept 23 to discuss promoting the integration of scientific and technological innovation and industrial innovation. Gao Yunlong, vice-chairman of the CPPCC National Committee and chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, addressed the gathering. 

Gao stressed that science and technology are the primary productive forces, while industry forms the bedrock of the national economy. He said that promoting the deep integration of sci-tech and industrial innovation is a major strategic decision made by the Communist Party of China Central Committee in light of China's current development stage and priorities. It is an inherent requirement for achieving high-quality development as well as a key step toward building a strong nation and advancing national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, he added. 

Gao called for a deeper understanding of the significance of this integration, accurate assessment of new challenges and targeted research on critical issues. He urged making full use of the CPPCC's strengths in consultation and sector-based expertise to explore practical pathways for integration, foster synergy across sectors and provide solid material and technological foundations for Chinese modernization. 

Officials from the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology briefed participants on relevant efforts. Seven members of the CPPCC National Committee and one expert shared views on issues including industrial modernization, medical device innovation, applying artificial intelligence to industrial transformation and accelerating the development of the bioeconomy. Officials engaged in discussions with the CPPCC members and expert.