President Xi Jinping presented China's top science award on Jan 10 to Huang Xuhua, the chief designer of China's first-generation nuclear submarines, and Zeng Qingcun, a famous meteorologist.
After receiving the medals and certificates, to show respects, the two scientists were invited to accompany the Party and State leaders on the rostrum.
Premier Li Keqiang delivered a speech at the ceremony during which he congratulated the scientists on their awards, greeted those who devoted themselves to the country's scientific research and expressed gratitude toward foreign experts who supported China's scientific work.
Noting that China will achieve its first centenary goal to build a moderately prosperous society in all respects this year, Li said that the whole country should be guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and further implement the strategy of innovation-driven development.
Li pledged to take such measures as increasing fiscal support, encouraging enterprises' investment and improving the research fund coverage system to bring more rewards to those who stay focused on research for decades.
Li required the relevant departments to implement tax reduction policies for scientific companies, respect and protect intellectual property rights and increase the companies' will and capability to innovate.
Source: China Daily
