The 2024 World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF), organized by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), commenced in Beijing on October 22, 2024, under the theme "Science and Technology for the Future." This prestigious event aims to promote international scientific collaboration and foster high-quality development through shared global initiatives.
Key Highlights of the 2024 WSTDF
The forum is guided by the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, inspired by the global initiatives proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The event is designed to harness global wisdom to enhance scientific, technological, and cultural exchanges, contributing to sustainable development.
Following the opening ceremony, participants were given an exclusive opportunity to visit an exhibition focused on Liu Hui, a renowned figure in classical Chinese mathematics, further enriching the cultural experience of the forum.
Engaging Sessions and Dialogue
Running from October 22 to 24, the forum will feature six thematic sessions and three roundtable discussions on various critical topics related to global technological advancement. These discussions aim to provide insights into cutting-edge issues while promoting international collaboration. Additionally, various cultural exchange activities will encourage networking and foster greater cooperation among global scientific communities.
Distinguished Guests and International Collaboration
The forum has attracted over 350 guests from 33 countries and regions, including 14 Nobel, Turing, and Lasker Prize laureates, as well as 27 heads of international scientific organizations. Participants also include 41 domestic and international academicians and more than 200 experts from top universities, research institutions, and leading enterprises. This international representation underscores the forum's growing influence in the global science and technology arena.
Fostering International Cooperation
Since its inception in 2019, the WSTDF has hosted five successful sessions, contributing significantly to grassroots scientific exchanges, expanding diplomatic networks, and establishing an open and trustworthy cooperation network. This year's forum continues that legacy, focusing on strengthening international consensus on technological cooperation and advancing sustainable development through joint exploration of emerging scientific challenges.
Attendees emphasized the forum's practical importance, recognizing its role in shaping the future direction of global science and technology cooperation. The discussions not only reflect an in-depth understanding of current challenges but also offer a forward-looking perspective, addressing key concerns of the international scientific community.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 WSTDF is set to conclude on October 30 in Beijing, with participants confident that the forum will continue to strengthen global collaboration in science and technology, fostering both South-South cooperation and North-South dialogue in the ever-evolving landscape of technological development.