Database set up to track stolen relics

The national watchdog overseeing cultural relics announced on Friday the establishment of an online database designed to prevent stolen foreign cultural relics from being smuggled into China to be traded.

A statement by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage said the database will cooperate with its overseas counterparts to include updated information about artifacts that have been reported stolen, and warn domestic institutions involved in the collection, study and trading of cultural relics.

"It will actively take international responsibility," the statement said. "It will respect and support other countries' right to protect their own cultural heritage. The database is a measure to enhance global cooperation and fight the illegal trading of artifacts."