Xi Jinping Becomes More Serious in Facing the US, Foundations Begin to Be Strengthened

Chinese President Xi Jinping is increasingly serious about facing global technology competition, especially with the United States (US). He stressed the importance of strengthening China’s science and technology foundations amid sharpening rivalry with America. He made this statement at a symposium in Shanghai on 30 April. At the forum, Xi called for more concrete and sustainable enhancements in basic research to bolster China’s original innovation capacity. According to Xi, basic research is the source of the entire scientific system and the “main switch” for all technological issues. This area encompasses the development of next-generation AI, quantum computing, advanced chips, and brain-computer interface technologies, which are now being contested by major countries. In such conditions, original and disruptive innovation is said to be the determining factor of a nation’s strength. “We must seize opportunities, face challenges, prioritise basic research, develop it sustainably, and continuously strive for achievements,” Xi said, quoted by KompasTekno from Xinhua. This statement aligns with China’s long-term policy direction previously reported by Xi at the national parliamentary meeting in Beijing some time ago. In that report, Xi is said to be redirecting massive resources to AI, quantum computing, and other strategic technologies to counter rivalry with the US. Therefore, China is now aggressively developing various new technology sectors, from bio-manufacturing, hydrogen and fusion energy, brain-computer interfaces, embodied intelligence, to 6G mobile networks. “Amid fierce international competition, we must win the strategic initiative,” reads the previously reported plan, compiled from The New York Times. At the Shanghai symposium, Xi also emphasised the importance of strengthening overall planning and top-level design in basic research development. Xi also called for clarity on main targets and priority fields, while strengthening the role of national research institutions and high-level research universities.