Four hundred Chinese scientists have gathered in the Great Hall of the People to mark the 55th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Founded in 1949, the Academy unites the country's top scientists, and likewise attracts many young overseas Chinese scholars. Academy president Lu Yongxiang reviewed its history at the meeting. He said over the past half century, the Academy contributed greatly to China's science development, especially in basic research and strategic state programs. The manned space flight is one such example, reported CCTV.com on Sunday.

In recent years, the Academy has given more emphasis to the transformation of its research to industrial applications. It has set up a national fund to encourage innovations by Chinese scientists.

Source: cctv.com