The 2021 Summit on Science and Technology for Agricultural and Rural Development and the Forum on Modern Agriculture Development in China held a briefing in Beijing on Nov. 19. Zhang Taolin, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA), attended the briefing and delivered remarks.

Zhang pointed out that China has achieved historical results in agricultural and rural affairs development since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. Science and technology have become the most important drivers of agricultural and rural economic growth. As China embarks on a new journey toward its second centenary goals, it is imperative to fully understand the role of S&T in agriculture and rural affairs; stick to the principles of ensuring food supplies and security, revitalizing the agricultural sector, and facilitating domestic and international circulation; and step up efforts to promote independent innovation in agricultural S&T, so as to provide strong support for the high-quality development of agriculture and rural affairs. Specifically, China must undertake the following tasks:

First, make breakthroughs in strategic areas, focus on the seed industry and arable lands, and address sticking points in agricultural technology, so that China can keep the future of development in its own hands.

Second, push for an integrated strategic system, deepen the integration of industry, academia and research institutions, and take concrete measures to turn S&T into a pillar of the industry and economy.

Third, optimize the strategic layout, focus on basic and cutting-edge research, emerging interdisciplinary and key technologies, and build technological competence in agriculture.

Fourth, further provide strategic support, create a favorable eco-system for innovation, and strengthen the training of agricultural S&T talent.

The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the China Association of Agricultural Science Societies, the Science and Technology Development Center of MARA, and the Rural Energy and Development Agency of MARA, among other groups, released seven special reports. The People’s Government of Pukou District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province also issued a report on the Nanjing Agricultural Innovation Center.