"Developments in global science, technology and economy deliver an increasingly clear message - that innovation has become the core competitiveness of a country or a region," said Wang Yang, Party secretary of Guangdong, as he explained the province's emphasis on innovation.

He stressed the importance of lifting existing industries up the value chain.

He said efforts will also be made to support the commercialization of innovative technologies.

Measures include implementation of necessary government policies, improvements in the venture capital investment system and a multi-layered capital market.

Provincial authorities will also encourage innovation in advanced industries, including bioengineering and pharmaceuticals, energy-saving and environmental technology, oceanic development, new materials and new energy.

Wang also urged to innovation for improving the living standard of people in the province.

To boost such capacity, the province will further its cooperation with the ministries of science and technology, and education.

Plans also call for deeper reform in research institutes, universities and the financing system in the science and technology sector.

Guangdong has registered a number of "firsts" in the science and technology sector over the past 30 years.

It was the first to set up science and technology industrial parks, to adopt legislation on the technological market, to grant generous awards to outstanding people in the sector, and to establish the landmark Guangdong foundation under the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

In 1992, the city government of Zhuhai, Guangdong, awarded funds ranging 80,000 yuan to 1.1 million yuan to outstanding people in the science and technology sector. The top winners also received Audi cars and apartments.

The event caused a sensation then and the practice has continued in Guangdong.

A 2 million yuan award created this year was given to two individuals. A 30 million yuan award will soon be set up.

As well, the Guangdong Science Center opened to the public in September to publicize innovation and technology.

Editor: Yan