President Xi Jinping on Wednesday asked Chinese scientists and engineers to position the country as a leading power in science and technology by 2035, with a focus on achieving high-level self-reliance. He stressed the need to speed up efforts in this area and use scientific innovation to support broader modernization goals. Xi noted that the current period offers a key chance to meet contemporary challenges and advance steadily toward the 2035 target during a gathering of leaders from major scientific and engineering institutions. The 15th Five-Year Plan period from 2026 to 2030 represents a vital stage for overcoming obstacles in building national strength in these fields, according to state media. At the event, Xi presented the top science and technology award for 2025 to two researchers recognized for work in lithium batteries and radar technology. China has advanced significantly in areas such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and battery development through extensive government backing, a large domestic market, robust production capacity, and a sizable engineering workforce. The country has prioritized AI as a strategic goal, investing heavily in research, computing resources, chip development, and training. It has also become the top global maker and seller of electric vehicles after rapid industry growth. Observers indicate these advances in AI, electric vehicles, and related technologies support a shift from manufacturing focus toward greater innovation, amid competition from other nations and restrictions on advanced chip exports.
