Defense Minister Chang Wanquan warned of a complex and fast changing security situation along the Chinese borders and vowed to step up border control.
Chang made the remarks during a recent inspection trip to southwest China's Yunnan Province, according to a statement issued on Monday.
"We should be fully aware of the complex and fast changing security situation along our borders and the significance of border control to the country's sovereignty, security, national interests, economic development, ethnic harmony and social stability," Chang said.
The Communist Party of China, government, armed forces, police and civilians should work together to enhance border control and maintain law and order along the borders, he said.
He also urged related agencies to be alert to new challenges and problems.
Local governments should step up awareness programs among ordinary citizens and create a positive environment through initiatives to boost local economies and improve livelihoods, he said.
