Dai Minhan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, notes that China's marine science lags in theory, equipment, and forecasting. [Photo/en.xmu.edu.cn]
Representatives from China's national key laboratories for marine science gathered at Xiamen University (XMU) for the Exchange Meeting on National Key Marine Science Laboratory Development, one of the events commemorating the 105th anniversary of marine sciences at XMU and the 80th anniversary of its Department of Oceanography.
Dai Minhan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered a report, noting that while China's national laboratory system is already well-established, the country's marine science still lags behind international standards in original theory, core equipment manufacturing, and predictive and observational capabilities.
During the discussion session, experts urged the creation of a standing research framework to formalize cooperation among national key laboratories. The proposal focuses on cross-institutional research programs and major projects designed to leverage specific institutional strengths through a permanent exchange mechanism.
The collaboration extends to personnel development through joint training programs and student exchanges. Globally, the laboratories will align with global frameworks, including the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) and the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), to enhance China's participation in international maritime governance.
