The centennial of the late Marshal Nie Rongzhen (1899-1992) was marked on December 18 at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Nie was a founder of the Chinese People's Liberation Army and New China.

At a forum attended by scientists, Zhu Lilan, the minister of Science and Technology spoke highly of Nie's great contributions to science and technology, saying that Nie helped implement major policy decisions in developing science and technology in the country.

As a prominent leader of the sector of science and technology for national defense, Nie is also remembered for his contributions to the development of missiles, satellites and the atom and hydrogen bombs in China, which substantially improved the strength of China's national defense.