Xi presents award to top scientists

"We will actively foster an environment that offers opportunities to those who are willing, courageous and capable to conduct innovation," he said.

The nation will make persistent efforts to shore up fundamental research, including increasing funding from the national budget and offering tax incentives to businesses and private capital, Li said. He underlined the need for composure and patience in supporting fundamental research, saying it is imperative to deepen reform in fundamental education and create a good research atmosphere that encourages innovation and tolerates failure.

The premier also underscored the principal status of businesses in conducting innovation, saying the government will come up with more inclusive policies for businesses in this regard and promote the flow of innovation elements to enterprises.

He pledged stronger measures to cut red tape that hampers innovation and further reduce burdens on researchers.

China will proactively integrate itself into the global innovation network and promote cooperation in the worldwide pandemic response, public health and climate change in a pragmatic manner, he said.

The nation will support scientists from various countries to conduct joint research on global issues and attract more overseas talent to China to realize their innovation dreams, he added.