Wang Xi attends 19th Science Council of Asia Conference

The 19th Science Council of Asia Conference (SCA Conference) was held in Naypyidaw, Myanmar on December 3-5, 2019.

Attendees pose for a group photo at the 19th SCA Conference in Naypyidaw, Myanmar on December 3-5, 2019.

Wang Xi, vice president of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), vice minister of Science and Technology of China, and member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), attended the conference and delivered a speech as SCA president.

Wang noted in his speech that at a time when economic globalization deepens and common problems facing the whole mankind become increasingly prominent, peace and sustainable development have become a prevailing trend that attracts worldwide attention.

The UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has further clarified the direction for the world’s sustainable development and made the key role of science, technology and innovation in driving sustainable development increasingly evident, Wang added.

He urged Asian countries to build science and technology partnerships and accelerate science and technology innovation in order to achieve sustainable development in Asia.

During the conference, Wang also chaired SCA’s Management Board Meeting. At the meeting, he introduced the preparations for the 20th SCA Conference and General Assembly to be held in China next year and took over the SCA Conference flag on behalf of CAST.

Wang also met with Science Council of Japan president professor Juichi Yamagiwa and Myanmar Academy of Arts and Science president Thet Lwin during the conference to discuss how to strengthen bilateral cooperation and put the role of SCA into greater play.

Themed “Research and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Asia”, the 19th SCA Conference had four sub-forums, attracting the participation of over 200 experts and scholars from around the world.

Minister for Education of Myanmar Myo Thein Gyi attended the opening ceremony and delivered welcoming remarks.

SCA is an important international science organization CAST has joined on behalf of China. SCA aims to provide scientists in all fields, including cultural and social as well as natural sciences and technology, a collaborative platform for promoting scientific exchange and cooperation in Asia, and to develop and promote a holistic vision focusing on sustainable development and improvement in quality of life.

Wang Xi assumed SCA presidency for a two-year term in 2018.