Speaking during his tour of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the country's leading research organization, the premier said the fundamental gap between developed and developing countries is based upon the gap between their scientific and technological strength and professional resources.

Science and technology is not only the most important productive force in today's world, but will also determine the future of economic development, said the premier.

He stressed the importance of basic research, saying that if China could not catch up with the advanced international level of scientific and technological research, it would be difficult for the country to realize its development goals.

Premier Zhu said the CAS has a major task in undertaking basic research. He urged the CAS to fully understand its historic responsibility and continue its efforts in the area.

The premier spoke highly of the CAS's pilot project to encourage innovation, launched in 1998 by the Chinese government.

Zhu said the State Council will continue to fully support the pilot project and hopes the CAS will continue its endeavor to reach its goal.

(China Daily 09/26/2000)