Ninety-eight young scientists in China, who are working in 12 different subject areas, received a national award Monday for their academic achievements in research and development.

It is the eighth time that China has issued the award, which is known as the "China Award for Young Scientists". So far, a total of 789 people have received the award.

He Guoqiang, a member of both the Political Bureau and Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, addressed the award-issuing ceremony. He called for building up a "green pass" for young talents so as to speed up the education of scientists.

He, who is also head of the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee, said the fostering of young scientists is of great significance for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

The award is sponsored by the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee, the Ministry of Personnel, and the China Association for Science and Technology.

(Xinhua News Agency June 29, 2004)