China is planning to set up an anti-terrorism body to coordinate and streamline the gathering of intelligence in the field. The draft counter-terrorism law aims to improve how information is collected and shared across government bodies, among the military and armed police. It will also enhance international cooperation.

CCTV’s correspondent Hou Na filed this report from Beijing.

Chinese legislators to amend counter-terrorism law

China is planning to set up an anti-terrorism body to coordinate and streamline the gathering of intelligence in the field. The draft counter-terrorism law aims to improve how information is collected and shared across government bodies, among the military and armed police. It will also enhance international cooperation. CCTV’s correspondent Hou Na filed this report from Beijing.

“Due to a lack of consistent laws in the intelligence field the country’s anti-terrorism work is incomplete with measures not yet strong enough. Counter-terrorism provisions are scattered across various NPC Standing Committee decisions, Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure Law and Emergency Response Law,” Deputy Director of the Law Committee of the NPC Stranding Committee Su Zelin said.

Explaining the draft bill to lawmakers, Su said China is facing a serious and complex situation in its fight against terrorism, as it sees more influence from “international factors.”

“The draft stipulates measures on Internet security management, the examination of transport, dangerous materials, terrorism financing prevention and border controls,” Su added.

China is categorically against terrorist acts in any form and urges close and effective international cooperation to counter terrorism under the leadership of the United Nations.

The country stands ready to enhance cooperation with the international community in fighting terrorist forces, safeguarding regional and international security and stability, as well as providing necessary humanitarian assistance to relevant parties.

The draft comes at a delicate time in China since Sunday is the one-year anniversary of a terror attack in Kunming that killed 29 people.