The Chinese science and technology community needs to scheme long-term development strategy in science and technology and strengthen innovation capability as soon as possible, a senior scientist said Wednesday.

"Although we are advancing in research and development, China is still lagging behind developed countries in the field, said Lu Yongxiang, president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

He said that new scientific and technological breakthroughs will be made in the next 30 to 50 years, most likely in information technology, life sciences, materials, brain sciences and interdisciplinary areas of natural and social sciences.

Lu, a CAS academician, delivered a speech on world science and technology trend and influence at the CAS Graduate School.

He suggested Chinese researchers to focus more on information technology, life sciences and biotechnologies, material sciences as well as space and marine technologies.

Science and technology are playing more and more important roles in pushing forward economic prosperity and social development, Lu said.

In the 21st century, when human beings are faced with huge amounts of chance in realizing scientific advancement, Lu said, many countries, particularly developed ones, are adjusting their development strategies in science and technology.

Since adoption of the reform and open-up policy, Lu said, China has achieved greatly in science and technology development and is now ranked among the top echelon in developing countries.

(Xinhua News Agency December 23, 2004)