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China revises national defence law to enhance security

  • Main areas of concern are cybersecurity, space and technologies related to electromagnetics, document says
  • Changs ‘urgently needed’ to reflect heightened state of strategic rivalry around the world, defence minister says

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China has issued a draft revision to its national defence law after almost two years of deliberations. Photo: Reuters
China has issued a draft revision to its national defence law as it seeks to enhance security in key areas like cyberspace, and improve communication between the government and the military.
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The document, which has been under deliberation for almost two years, was released by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on Wednesday and will remain open for public comment until November 19.

Under the draft, a “coordination mechanism” for discussing important defence matters will be established between the State Council – China’s cabinet – and the Communist Party’s Central Military Commission.

The areas of primary concern were cybersecurity, space and technologies related to electromagnets, it said.

The document said also that China would “take part in global security governance and support global efforts to international arms control”.

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It also highlighted the need for more research into defence technologies and encouraged investment by companies and organisations from outside the military sector.

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