Chinese leader demands security before CPC congress

Senior Chinese leader Zhou Yongkang on Friday urged authorities around the country to spare no effort in safeguarding the security of the upcoming national congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and maintaining social stability.

Zhou, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks at a seminar attended by leading officials in charge of political and legal affairs from both central and local authorities.

He stressed the importance of seriously implementing the policies of central authorities and using the experience gained from security work surrounding previous important events.

Also secretary of Political and Legal Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, Zhou said the overall preparedness for the 18th National Congress of the CPC is good, and the whole country is now awaiting the event.

"However, we must soberly realize that various factors exist which can lead to disharmony, insecurity and instability, bringing many risks and challenges for the security work of the Party congress," added Zhou, urging political and legal authorities at all levels to recognize the situation and further enhance their awareness of responsibilities.

The senior leader called on the authorities to strengthen checks of social conflicts, better handle petitions from the people, seriously address people's reasonable appeals and make social stability risk evaluations for major social issues, so as to prevent and reduce social conflicts at the source.

"We must crack down on all kinds of serious criminal activities according to law and strengthen security measures for important infrastructure and the management of individuals from special groups," said Zhou.

He also called for improved security work around Beijing in order to consolidate stability in the capital.