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Download An increasing number of science and technology international conferences are being held in China, as the country's scientific research and innovation capabilities and influence continue to grow. The latest example is the 28th General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union, which is being held in Beijing from Monday to Aug 31. This is the first time China has hosted the triennial event since joining the organization in 1935. "Over the past 30 years, since China adopted the reform and opening-up policies, it has not only opened its door for economic development, but also for exchanges in science and technology," Vice-President Xi Jinping said at the inaugural ceremony of the IAU meeting on Tuesday. Recently, China has hosted a series of prominent science and technology events, including the 24th International Congress of Mathematicians in 2002, which was held in Beijing, and the first session of the World Engineers Conference in 2004 in Shanghai. Since 1922, the IAU General Assembly has been the most important conference for the international astronomy community. "The events have helped China's scientific and technological circles expand their international perspectives, and helped international scientific and technological circles deepen their understanding and knowledge about China," Xi said. "The events also promote exchange and cooperation between Chinese and international scientific and technological circles, and create conditions for China to contribute to the development of science and technology in the world," Xi said. | 
