China to complete B&R sci-tech cooperation system in 2030

BEIJING -- A science and technology (S&T) cooperation network along the Belt and Road (B&R) will be completed in 2030, said Bai Chunli, president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), on Tuesday.

Bai made the remarks at a press briefing in Beijing, noting the leading role of the CAS.

Bai referred to the efforts the CAS has made in recent years in S&T cooperation in the B&R region, including a plan released in early 2016 on a science and innovation community consisting of B&R countries.

Also, over 2,000 overseas staff have been introduced to China by the CAS, and nearly 1,500 overseas students have received scholarships to work for a master's degrees in China, Bai added.

Most B&R countries share similar developmental problems, such as pollution and natural disasters, while their industries complement China's, which makes it necessary for the countries to deepen their cooperation, he said.

Efforts including exchanging of talent can further the understanding between the B&R countries, and enhance confidence in the B&R initiative, according to Bai.