China’s Xi Jinping calls for innovation system overhaul to beat global tech rivals

President Xi Jinping has called for China to strengthen its innovation system and attract more overseas talent to enhance global competitiveness amidst increasing technological rivalry. He emphasized these points on Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing during a national science assembly. During the event, Xi presented the State Pre-eminent Science and Technology Award, China's highest scientific honor, to Chen Liquan, a pioneer in solid-state lithium batteries, and Ben De, an expert in military airborne radar. Each laureate received 5 million yuan in prize money.