On December 8, Chinese President Jiang Zemin visited Qian Xuesen, a famous scientist who has contributed much to the country's cause of science and technology.

Qian is one of the pioneers of China's space science. A world- famous expert on aerospace rockets and aerodynamics, Qian has made outstanding contributions to the development of science and technology in China, space technology in particular.

Due to research and development led by Qian, China successfully exploded its first atom bomb in 1964, launched its first man-made satellite in 1970, and fired its first transcontinental ballistic missile toward the Pacific in 1980.

During the meeting, the Chinese president and Qian shared a lively chat on the trial flight of the Shenzhou spacecraft and the new developments in China's science and technology.

In recent years, China has made great strides in its science and technology, and in some areas has reached the world advanced level, the president said.

He attributed the achievements to the hard work of the older scientists such as Qian, and to the unremitting efforts of all those in the science and technology field.

Science and technology represents the most important productive force, Jiang said, adding that China's modernization and the revitalization of the nation call for the development of science and technology and technological renovation.

Qian, who is about to celebrate his 88th birthday, agreed, and made some suggestions on the further developments of science and technology, and national defense.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Lanqing accompanied the president on his visit.