The first meeting of the National Science and Technology System Reform and Innovation System Construction Leading Group, presided over by Vice-Premier Liu He, was held in Beijing on Sept 5.

It was pointed out at the meeting that China’s economy has shifted from high-speed growth to high-quality development, and the external development environment has undergone profound changes. Innovation in science and technology will play a key role in the construction of comprehensive national strength and international competitiveness.

It is necessary to carry out extensive and in-depth studies and discussions, and clarify the basic ideas of science and technology development, determine major policies for the construction of a scientific power, and identify key tasks in technological innovation.

It was decided that a medium- and long-term science and technology development plan should be made as soon as possible.

Efforts should be made to carry out a profound analysis of the current situation of China’s science and technology development and study the overall trend of the world’s science and technology development, while soliciting opinions from various sectors.

The science and technology management functions of the government should be transformed to formulating policies, creating the right environment and improving services as early as possible, according to the meeting.