Xi Jinping for enhancement of internet defence capability

BEIJING: President Xi Jinping today called for enhancement of China's internet defence capabilities to ensure online security and protection of key information infrastructure.

Xi, who heads the central Internet security and informatisation leading group, made the remarks while presiding over a symposium on the topic.

Internet defence capabilities should be enhanced, Xi said, adding that securing the online environment is a common responsibility for all of society and requires commitment from the government, enterprises, social organisations and all netizens.

Security is a prerequisite for Internet development, and development will also safeguard Internet security, Xi, 62, said.

Stressing on a correct outlook of cybersecurity, Xi urged on accelerated development of a system to protect key information infrastructure and ensure online security.

He also called on the industry to achieve more breakthroughs in core Internet technology.

"More personnel, material and financial resources should be put toward research and development of core and strategically important technologies," Xi said.

He called on entrepreneurs, scholars, scientists and technicians in the industry to work together towards the goal.

"New technology is the achievement of civilization and we will never resist its development as long as it helps improve productivity and the people's lives," Xi said.

Xi is the head of the ruling Communist Party of China and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.

The leading group's deputy heads Li Keqiang and Liu Yunshan also attended the symposium.