During the first session of the national science, technology and education leading group of the State Council chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao, participants considered the first two decades of this century would provide strategic opportunities not only to China's economic and social development, but also to scientific and technological progress.

They said a long-term development plan for science and technology could help enhance China's innovative ability and competitiveness, enabling the country to face the challenges of the science and technology revolution.

The plan would set out guidelines and major goals for the country's scientific and technological development in accordance with the demands of economic and social progress.

The plan would be formulated on the basis of an overall analysis of the development and changes in global politics, economy, military affairs, culture, public health and ecological environment, participants said.

They also called for further effort to strengthen the work of the country's education in rural areas.

(Xinhua News Agency May 31, 2003)