Strategy set to accelerate self-reliance

President Xi has called for keeping science, tech lifeline 'in our own hands'

China's latest call to implement the innovation-driven development strategy will accelerate efforts to pursue breakthroughs in crucial technologies and safeguard the stability of global industrial and supply chains, amid the rising tide of technological protectionism in some countries, according to experts and company executives.

China is a strong supporter of globalization, but the professional division of labor in the world is facing risks as some countries attempt to hinder cooperation in high-tech sectors, said Shi Hongxiu, a professor of economics at the National Academy of Governance.

In such a context, China has no choice but to boost self-reliance in crucial technologies, Shi said, adding that President Xi Jinping's call to implement the strategy is of great significance to encourage Chinese scientists, entrepreneurs and others to double down on pursuing indigenous innovation in pursuing the country's high-quality development.