The Science and Technology Council today (19 September) purposed to establish the Science and Technology Fund to enhance Macao's competitiveness.

Chief Executive Edmund Ho, president of the Council, chaired its first meeting. The issues included the establishment of the Fund and related ad-hoc groups, the organization of large-scale exhibitions, and conventions and cooperation with the Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China.

Ao Man Long, Secretary for Transport and Public Works and member of the Council, said after the meeting that the Council aims at providing resources for research, support and aid the future development of related industries.

"The maximun for the Fund is two hundred million patacas which is mainly supported by the Government and other instituties," said Mr. Ao, adding that an ac-hoc group was set up to study subsidized items and to establish regulations for the subsidiary scheme.

Mr. Ao stressed that the Fund would mainly subsidize projects conducted by higher education institutions, and would support the development of several sophisticated endeavors such as environmental protection, Chinese medicinal herbs, tourism and the gaming industry.