China must become more innovative if it is to keep improving its economy next year, according to a central economic work conference attended by China's top policy-makers in Beijing Thursday

"Enhancing innovation should at the core of China's economy and its continued transformation," said the statement from the Central Economic Work Conference, an annual event that sets major economic strategies and policies for the coming year.

China will continue importing advanced technology but will also develop core technologies with proprietary intellectual property rights by making use of its domestic scientific resources. The three-day meeting concluded here Thursday.

China must implement supportive policies and establish a market environment that will encourage independent innovation and enhance the protection of intellectual property rights, said the meeting's statement.

China should also make a strong effort to mentor its talented innovators, said the statement.

Source: Xinhua