The Pujiang Innovation Forum, one of the world’s most prestigious innovation events, will be held in Shanghai, 7-10 September. This year, to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Hungary and China, Hungary will be the guest of honour with a delegation of around 30, including policy makers, scientists, business and academic leaders. Thanks to the guest of honour status, the Chinese professional and investment community will pay special attention to the demonstration of Hungarian scientific and innovation achievements.

The Shanghai Pujiang Innovation Forum has been held since 2008, this year being the 17th occasion. The event brings together key players from the Chinese innovation ecosystem with government officials, innovators and academic researchers from around the world. The thematic forums, trade exhibitions, seminars and other interactive events following the grand opening and plenary session will cover a wide range of important topics vital for the future of humanity, from quantum technologies to healthy living solutions, space and ocean exploration, and even ethical concerns raised by technological advancement.

Hungary and China celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year. To mark the occasion, the Chinese side has invited Hungary to the Pujiang Innovation Forum as guest of honour. László Bódis, Deputy State Secretary for Innovation at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation said: “The forum provides a great chance to present Hungary's scientific, research and innovation strengths and world-famous achievements at one of the largest innovation conferences of China and of the world. At our dedicated Hungarian stand, we can introduce our research institutes, universities and a number of innovative companies to decision-makers and innovators of several countries. Innovation and science are international genres: we Hungarians can only be successful if we strengthen our cooperation in these areas, both towards the West and the East.”

As a guest of honour country, Hungary will have the opportunity to present its culture, gastronomy and national values, as well as organise its own sub-forum. The Hungarian sub-forum will focus on healthy living, presenting Hungarian medical and health research and innovative solutions. This is one of the key focus areas of the government’s innovation strategy package, the John von Neumann Programme, in which Hungary can boast impressive results.

The Hungarian government delegation, led by Deputy State Secretary László Bódis, includes representatives of organisations that play a key role in the development of the Hungarian innovation ecosystem, including the National Research, Development and Innovation Office and the Hungarian Innovation Agency.

The Hungarian government’s strategic goal is to make Hungary one of the top 25 strongest innovators in the world and one of the top 10 strongest innovators in Europe by 2030. The Pujiang Innovation Forum and similar international innovation events can help Hungary to achieve this important goal through networking, exchanging ideas on the latest science and technology trends, showcasing achievements and raising awareness among professional partners and investors.

Source: Ministry of Culture and Innovation