CRI听力:Two Scientists Crowned China's Top Prize, Premier Stresses Innovation

Physical chemist Zhang Cunhao and physicist Cheng Kaijia have won China's top science award for 2013.

The award ceremony was held Friday in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Zhang, a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, is an expert on chemical laser and molecular dynamics.

Upon receiving the award, Zhang expressed willingness to continue his work in combining technological innovation and economic development together.

"When the People's Republic of China was founded, I returned to my homeland from the US to serve our country, like many scholars did back then. I have been engaged in the study of chemical lasers and molecular reaction dynamics with my colleagues for a long time, and made humble contributions to China's national defense and security. As an aging scientist, I will continue to discover and educate young talents. Together with other scientists, we will be in constant pursuit of excellence."

Cheng Kaijia, the other winner, is a pioneer of Chinese nuclear technology.

He played an important role in the development of China's first atomic bomb.

The pair, both academics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, have been presented with certificates by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the annual ceremony held to honor distinguished scientists and research achievements.

Each of the winners was awarded five million yuan, or about 830,000 U.S. dollars.

Addressing the ceremony, Premier Li Keqiang said China has entered a new stage in which sci-tech innovation is needed.

"China must rely on scientific and technological innovation to improve the overall quality of its economy, move upward in the industrial value chain, foster a new competitive edge, overcome restraints in resources and the environment, and to achieve more sustainable development. The country needs breakthroughs in frontier sciences and technologies, as well as in its strategic sectors, which are vital to the national economy and people's livelihood."

The premier also urged the government to free innovative scientific activities from administrative intervention and "let the market speak" in terms of research orientation, resource allocation, and use of funds.

Li Keqiang also added that it should also create an environment that promotes fair play and encourages creativity and initiative among scientists and researchers.

He says government should also encourage the young to follow the examples set by outstanding scientists, and contribute their own wisdom to the country and the people.

Awards were also given to a number of other scientists and scientific research programs during the ceremony.

For CRI, I'm Ding Lulu.