The Chinese Academy of Sciences ( CAS) and the Max Planck Society (MPS) of Germany signed in Beijing Monday morning a letter of intent to start a joint research institute.

Representatives from the CAS and the MPS signed the document at a celebration marking the 30th anniversary of their scientific cooperation, agreeing to establish a research institute together in the near future.

MPS President Peter Gruss said the institute might focus on computational biology, but he did not rule out other choices for cooperative frontier research.

"It belongs to the CAS legally and administratively," Gruss said, "while both the CAS and the MPS will scheme and oversee its research plans."

"If possible," he said, "the MPS is willing to invest funds into the joint venture."

CAS President Lu Yongxiang said, the two sides aim for a stable and long-term strategic partnership despite cultural and social differences.

"With mutual respect and mutual benefit," Lu said, "the two sides would realize an overall advancement in scientific research. "

Lu highlighted life sciences, natural resources, environmental protection, information technology, nanoscience and nanotechnology, aerospace science, clean energy and new materials as priorities of future bilateral cooperation.

The CAS and the MPS have carried out their scientific cooperation since 1974. The two sides sent guest researchers to each other as well as established junior research groups and partnership groups.

(Xinhua News Agency May 25, 2004)