Priority given to improving sci-tech strength

China has taken solid steps toward building a scientifically and technologically strong country since the National Science and Technology Conference held last year, according to an executive meeting of the State Council, the country's Cabinet, which was presided over by Premier Li Qiang on Friday.

Li listened to the report on accelerating the construction of a scientifically and technologically strong country in accordance with the spirit of the conference, which was held on June 24 last year. And about one year on, efforts have been made to effectively and orderly advance the implementation of various tasks in science and technology reform and development, the meeting said.

It added that it's necessary to further enhance a sense of responsibility and urgency to accelerate the advancement of high-level scientific and technological self-reliance, which should be a goal to adhere to without slackening and with firm determination.

Efforts to increase the intensity of scientific and technological breakthroughs and accelerate the advent of key core technologies should be further intensified to fill shortcomings and strengthen advantages in sci-tech sectors, the meeting urged.

In addition, it's essential to effectively transform sci-tech achievements into tangible productivity. By fully leveraging the advantages of China's vast market, the position of enterprises in scientific and technological innovation should be strengthened, and the reform of the mechanism for transforming sci-tech achievements needs to be deepened to promote the deep integration of scientific and industrial innovation, it said.

The meeting also emphasized that the concept of "efficiently getting one thing done" has promoted the transformation of government service concepts, facilitated the public and enterprises in handling affairs and effectively improved the business environment.

It's also necessary to comprehensively adopt the concept in a wider range of key government services, especially in matters based on prominent issues reflected by the public and enterprises. And local authorities are encouraged to add characteristic public services according to local conditions and promote more integrated handling of public services such as banking, healthcare and telecommunications, the meeting said.

It added that it's essential to strengthen the empowerment of digital technology, continuously improve the functions of the national integrated government service platform and effectively enhance public service quality and user experience.

Meanwhile, the meeting also reviewed and approved the draft of the Rural Road Regulations. It said that formulating specialized administrative regulations to promote the development of rural roads is of great significance for promoting the comprehensive revitalization of rural areas.

And it's necessary to adhere to problem recognition, prioritize the high-quality development of rural roads and upgrade and transform rural roads that do not meet standards promptly, it added.