The United Front Work Department held a seminar on June 16, to discuss the results of the “Strengthening National Strategic Science and Technology Forces” research campaign. Indicating the seminar's importance, it was attended by Wang Yang, Politburo Standing Committee member and Chairman of the CPPCC. The meeting focused on how best to boost China’s national strategic scientific and technological strength. It emphasised top-down guidance, and providing room for innovation. One attendee recommended “strengthening the overall planning and guidance of scientific research projects” and “autonomy of scientific research institutions.”

(Comment: Involvement of the CPPCC means that the effort to persuade overseas Chinese scientists and other scientists will be enhanced. The government is currently formulating a 15-year plan for science and technology, which should be finalised late this year.)