China and South Africa officially launched science park cooperation last week to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in science and technology.

Speaking during the launch ceremony, Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong noted the rapid progress in bilateral science and technology cooperation after China and South Africa established diplomatic relations nearly 20 years ago.

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The launch of the China-South Africa science park cooperation is of great significance for deepening bilateral innovation cooperation and realizing win-win cooperation, said Ms. Liu.

She described science parks as an effective tool to develop the science and technology industry. Science parks also bolster sustainable development with technological innovation. Ms. Liu said many countries have made developing science parks a common choice.

Enhanced science park cooperation will inject new vitality into China-South Africa science and technology cooperation, she said.

With the official launch of the China-South Africa science park cooperation, representatives from the science and business circles of both countries will conduct exchanges and research on science park cooperation.

Ms. Liu further noted the remarkable achievements in bilateral cooperation in biology, information, mining, laser, new materials and other fields. These are making science and technology a priority and a bright spot in the China-South Africa comprehensive strategic partnership.

China is willing to share its experience with South Africa in the planning, building and operation of high-tech zones, said Ms. Liu.

China and South Africa should strengthen win-win cooperation in promoting innovation and facilitate the commercialization of scientific and technological achievements so as to propel growth with innovation and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

Science and technology was incorporated as a key field of cooperation into the mechanism framework during the first meeting of the China-South Africa High Level People to People Exchange Mechanism (PPEM) held last week.

In December 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Jacob Zuma reached an important consensus on science park cooperation.