President Hu Jintao proudly stands beside petrochemical
scientist Min Enze, co-winner of the nation's top science award announced at the
Great Hall of the People in Beijing yesterday. - Xinhua
China granted its State Scientific and Technological Award for 2007 in
Beijing yesterday to petrochemical scientist Min Enze and botanist Wu Zhengyi
for progress in technological innovation.
Chinese president Hu Jintao, with
other senior leaders, presented the 5 million yuan (about US$600,000) awards at
the annual national science-technology award ceremony at the Great Hall of the
People.
Premier Wen Jiabao said in a keynote speech that China had reached a
stage in its history where it was more dependent on scientific and technological
innovation, and it should strive to enhance its innovative capabilities, which
were a national strategic priority.
Government and Party officials should
"make friends with scientists" and "extensively take their advice," Wen said,
adding the country should create a sound, respectful environment for scientists
and scientific progress.
Other Party and government leaders -- Li Changchun,
Xi Jinping and Li Keqiang -- also attended the event and presented awards to
other scientists and enterprises for significant scientific
contributions.
The ceremony was jointly held by the Central Committee of the
Communist Party of China and the State Council.