Chinese scientists and their progress have both always concerned President Xi Jinping. He has often praised their spirit.

This advocacy translated into a June 2019 document about carrying forward the spirit of Chinese scientists and enhancing academic integrity.

The document defined the spirit of Chinese scientists in the new era as patriotism, innovation, truth-seeking, dedication, teamwork and promoting young successors.

Speaking to a symposium of scientists in early September 2020, Xi said that scientists could make no progress without strong mental support and their spirit was a valuable asset created and passed down through years of work and research.