From June 18 to 20, Harbin Engineering University (HEU) hosted the inaugural Forum on Innovation and Development of Marine Sensing and Observation Technologies at the Nantong International Conference Center. HEU President SONG Yingdong delivered his remarks via video. Notable attendees included XIN Hongmei, Deputy Director of the Department of Science and Technology Development at the Ministry of Natural Resources; YU Lizhong, Vice Mayor of Nantong; WANG Wentao, Director of the Marine Division at the China 21st Century Agenda Management Center; and CHEN Hailong, Assistant to the President of HEU. The forum brought together over 100 experts and scholars from leading institutions, including Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, the First Institute of Oceanography of the Ministry of Natural Resources, the China Ship Scientific Research Center, and Wuxi Zhihai Technology Co., Ltd.

In his address, President SONG expressed hope that the forum would become a vital platform for integrating industry expertise and promoting innovation in China’s marine sensing and observation technologies. He highlighted the urgent need to accelerate the development of intelligent, high-precision, and globally integrated marine monitoring systems. He also emphasized the importance of cultivating advanced productive forces in marine science and technology to support the future development of deep-sea industries.

Deputy Director XIN Hongmei noted that the forum aimed to facilitate the exchange of research achievements and foster an innovation ecosystem that links industry, academia, research, and practical application. She called on participating experts and institutions to recognize the scientific significance of marine observation, remain mission-driven, address key national and industrial challenges, pursue technological breakthroughs, and expedite the transformation of scientific research into real-world applications.

Vice Mayor YU Lizhong stated that Nantong City would leverage the forum to further advance its marine-oriented, innovation-driven development agenda. He reaffirmed the city’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with academic and industry leaders to accelerate the commercialization and implementation of scientific and technological achievements.

Director WANG Wentao underscored the importance of systematic review and strategic planning in marine science and technology. He advocated for the establishment of long-term, organized research mechanisms and the development of strong talent pipelines. He encouraged continuous innovation across all levels to accelerate progress in the marine industry.