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, with the theme “Science and Technology for the Future.” This prestigious event is dedicated to promoting international scientific collaboration and supporting high-quality development through shared global initiatives.
Key Highlights of the 2024 WSTDF
Guided by the vision of building a global community with a shared future, inspired by initiatives from Chinese President Xi Jinping, the forum seeks to harness international expertise to foster scientific, technological, and cultural exchanges that contribute to sustainable development. Following the opening ceremony, participants had an exclusive opportunity to explore an exhibition on Liu Hui, a celebrated figure in classical Chinese mathematics, adding a cultural dimension to the forum’s agenda.
Engaging Sessions and Dialogue
The forum, running from October 22 to 24, features six thematic sessions and three roundtable discussions on key issues in global technological advancement. These discussions offer insights into cutting-edge challenges and highlight the need for international collaboration. Additionally, cultural exchange activities provide networking opportunities to foster greater cooperation among global scientific communities.
Distinguished Guests and International Collaboration
The forum has drawn over 350 participants from 33 countries and regions, including 14 Nobel, Turing, and Lasker Prize laureates, and 27 leaders of international scientific organizations. Attendees also include 41 academicians and over 200 experts from leading universities, research institutions, and enterprises. This distinguished international representation highlights the forum’s expanding influence on the global science and technology stage.
Fostering International Cooperation
Since its inception in 2019, the WSTDF has successfully hosted five sessions, significantly contributing to grassroots scientific exchanges, diplomatic networks, and the establishment of a reliable cooperation platform. This year’s forum continues that legacy, aiming to strengthen international consensus on technology collaboration and promote sustainable development through the exploration of emerging scientific challenges. Attendees underscored the forum’s practical importance, acknowledging its role in shaping the global trajectory of science and technology cooperation. Discussions at the forum not only reflect a deep understanding of current issues but also provide a forward-looking perspective on critical concerns within the international scientific community.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 WSTDF will conclude on October 30 in Beijing, with participants optimistic that the forum will continue to advance global collaboration in science and technology. By fostering both South-South cooperation and North-South dialogue, the forum is poised to make a lasting impact on the ever-evolving landscape of technological development.
