On October 15-16, the National Meteorological Science and Technology Conference took place in Beijing, attended by Chen Zhenlin, the Party Secretary and Administrator of the China Meteorological Administration. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of accelerating the establishment of a strong national meteorological science and technology framework. He called on all stakeholders to join efforts and leverage technological innovation to drive high-quality development in meteorology for the new era.
During the conference, it was highlighted that meteorological scientists are working collaboratively to overcome challenges, supported by relevant departments and industry players. This partnership aims to accelerate the design and improvement of meteorological technology innovation systems, advance foundational research, achieve breakthroughs in core meteorological technologies, and enhance service development. The conference noted significant achievements in utilizing meteorology to boost new productivity forms, ongoing reforms in the meteorological science system, and the increasing international influence of China’s meteorological technologies, laying a solid groundwork for advancing meteorological science in line with the goal of becoming a technology powerhouse.
As part of the conference, systematic plans were made concerning the goals, practical paths, and key work areas needed to achieve the objective of becoming a leading nation in meteorological science and technology. The conference addressed four primary areas:
First, it stressed the need to align with strategic objectives while modernizing meteorological capabilities and social services. The vision for a technologically advanced nation should translate into actionable plans tailored for the meteorological sector, providing a detailed roadmap for innovation.
Second, the meeting called for leveraging large-scale plans and platforms through enhanced collaboration. Initiatives such as the “Asia-Africa Monsoon” international scientific program aim to create a vibrant platform for meteorological innovation, uniting resources and fostering a coordinated organizational framework to link innovation, operations, funding, and talent within the meteorological sector.
Third, there was a focus on enhancing collaborations in education and talent development as crucial elements of deepening meteorological science reforms. Establishing a high-level self-sustaining meteorological science system, robust foundational capabilities, and comprehensive mechanisms for talent development are essential for fostering a new model of collaborative growth.
Fourth, it was noted that effective governance in science and technology requires a focus on strategy, reform, planning, and service. Adopting the “9119” working method, which emphasizes proactive, interactive, and coordinated approaches, is vital for improving the governance system and enhancing the capabilities of meteorological science governance.
The conference also featured the announcement of 21 outstanding meteorological science and technology achievements for evaluation in 2024. Institutions like Nanjing University, the National Meteorological Center, and others delivered presentations. Participants included representatives from 20 governmental departments, central enterprises such as the China National Railway Group and China Huaneng Group, and various collaborating universities and research institutions, who engaged in focused discussions throughout the event.
