Chinese State Councilor Chen Zhili has called on scientists in Shanghai to be more capable of carrying out independent technological innovations in an effort to further implement the guidelines of the Fifth Session of the 16th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Chen made the remarks while taking an inspection tour in Shanghai between Oct. 16 and 17. While in Shanghai, Chen visited a number of hi-tech companies and key projects.

The Party session adopted the guidelines for the development of China's science and technology, giving priority to independent innovation, according to Chen.

She said Chinese hi-tech parks have gradually found their own road of independent innovation, developing hi-tech industries, taking hold of technical know-how and their own intellectual property rights, and gathering innovative professionals.

Thanks to the big strides made by these hi-tech firms, China is now taking the lead in the world in certain technological fields, she noted.

During his tour of Shanghai, the official called on the best-known Chinese writer, Ba Jin, in the hospital. Ba breathed his last breath on October 17, at the age of 101.

(Xinhua News Agency October 20, 2005)