Xi Jinping Champions Technological Self-Reliance During Landmark Visit to Hefei’s Science Hub

During a visit to the science hub in the previously impoverished city of Hefei, China's President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of advancing high-tech industries. He was reported saying that high-tech development must be earned and cannot simply be asked for, while touring the capital of Anhui, which has transformed into a center of innovation.

"Xi emphasized the importance of prioritizing science and technology to propel China's unique approach to modernization during his Thursday visit to Hefei Binhu Science City, a leading research and innovation center in the capital of Anhui province."

During his tour of the province, President Xi emphasized the importance of advancing technological independence and progress, according to the state news agency Xinhua.

Xi also encouraged Anhui to further strengthen its position as a key center for technological innovation, a focal point for new industries, a leading area for reforms and openness, and as a region dedicated to a holistic green transformation in its economic and social development.

Xi's comments emerge as China intensifies its focus on technological development, pivoting towards what it terms "new quality productive forces" and moving away from its earlier reliance on an export-driven growth model. This shift occurs in the context of an ongoing technological rivalry with the United States, which has been attempting to limit China's access to advanced technology.