The National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) held a science popularization lecture at Beijing University of Technology on June 25. Qin Shunquan, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee and academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, delivered a presentation on China's bridges. Vice-Chairpersons of the CPPCC National Committee Shen Yueyue, Shao Hong, and Zhu Yongxin attended the event.

Beginning with an overview of basic bridge structures, Qin systematically reviewed the evolution of China's bridge construction technology, from initial learning and assimilation, through independent exploration, catch-up efforts and steady advancement, to today's innovation-driven development.

He outlined how the sector has grown from scratch into the global leading position, and introduced major technological achievements and current innovations in Chinese bridge engineering. He also proposed solutions to new demands in bridge construction in the new era and offered forward-looking insights into cutting-edge trends and transformative approaches shaping the future of bridge development, before engaging in interactive exchanges with the audience.

Huang Wei, vice-chairman of the Committee on Education, Science, Health and Sports of the CPPCC National Committee, presided over the lecture. He noted that China's bridges, spanning rivers and mountains, stand as testaments to the leapfrog development of the nation's infrastructure and vividly demonstrate the unique strengths of the new system for mobilizing resources nationwide.

Making use of the CPPCC's concentration of talent and intellectual resources, the science lecture initiative mobilizes CPPCC members to disseminate cutting-edge scientific knowledge to the public, serving as a bridge that connects different sectors, fosters public understanding of science and inspires confidence in China's scientific and technological prowess, Huang said.

The initiative aims especially to help young students gain a deeper appreciation of the country's landmark projects, strengthen their confidence in China's scientific capabilities, and rally broad support for advancing the country's development on the new journey in the new era, Huang said.

More than 400 participants attended the lecture, including CPPCC National Committee members, university and secondary school students, and professionals in the science and technology community.