Xi: Scientific innovation key to development

President seeks strong foundation to improve national productivity

President Xi Jinping encouraged scientists in China on Monday to rely on innovation to achieve major breakthroughs in key technologies and serve the country's development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 17th conference of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the 12th conference of the Chinese Academy of Engineering at the Great Hall of the People, Xi said scientific and technological innovation is the key to China's future progress.