BEIJING — Vice-Premier Ma Kai on Oct 12 called for more contributions to the country’s space program.

During a seminar marking the 60th anniversary of China’s space program, Ma said that with the leadership of the central authority and the contributions of scientists, China has established a full space innovation system and made a series of achievements.

The space industry should adhere to the new concepts of development, serve the overall development plan of the country and fully advance the opening up and reform policy, the vice premier said.

Ma also called for innovation and the integration of the military and civilian sectors. The space industry should focus on major projects and promote the development of space science, technology and application to make new achievements for China’s space program and more contributions to the modernization of national defense and social and economic development, Ma said.

State Councilor Wang Yong, space scientists, members of the military and other relevant institutions also participated in the seminar.