Xinjiang told to tighten borders in battle against terrorism

Enhancing border facilities and control in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region plays an important role in maintaining local social stability and long-term peace, China's defense chief said.

State Councilor and Defense Minister Chang Wanquan ordered local authorities to be stricter in border controls and step up exit and entry administration. In addition, they were told to adopt preventative measures and create a stronger deterrent to ensure border security, according to a news release from the ministry on Monday.

Chang made the remarks after a recent inspection of Xinjiang's front-line border posts, checkpoints and ports of entry.