Zhou Xiaochuan: Human Beings Depends on Science and Innovation to Defeat Pandemic and Boost Economy More Than Ever


The opening ceremony of the First Conference of the International Science, Technology and Innovation Forum (ISTIF) of Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) was held in Macao on November 10. Mr. Zhou Xiaochuan, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) gave remarks at the opening ceremony.

Mr. Zhou indicated that the fourth industrial revolution has swept the globe, featured by artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, 5G, Quantum Technology and life Science. It has brought profound changes and is re-shaping global pattern. Against the backdrop of covid-19 and economic recession, our reliance on and faith in science and technology, a key weapon defeating pandemic, is unprecedented. It is believed that science and innovation will power the engine of economic recovery and oil the wheel of green, inclusive and sustainable development.

Mr. Zhou underscored that Asia is the most fast-growing and vibrant region. Science and innovation has been written into national strategy in more and more Asia countries. By upholding the scientific and innovative spirit, China will fulfill its commitment to high-quality development, empowers economic recovery and growth, and continue to build up the new development mode, dominated by domestic circulation and supported by domestic-international-dual-circulation. Macao, as one of the most vibrant microeconomy and among central cities at the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, has the reputation of respecting science and innovation, bolstering economic diversity.

Mr. Zhou acknowledged that science and technology are an overarching force, yet the threats it brings cannot be ignored. In a new era that global economy is of great dependence while physical connection and internet connection are more intensive, science and innovation is characterized by internet and globalization because technologies themselves do not have borders. To facilitate technological innovation and enhance global technology governance, we need further cooperation across borders. BFA will keep the commitment to strengthen communication and cooperation, eliminate barriers, advance rules and mobilize global resource for better allocation and alignment, in order to facilitate green, inclusive and sustainable development agenda in the post-pandemic era.