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| China sees terrorism as worldwide threat |
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Those attacks have had a far－reaching impact on the entire world's concept of security. China, along with many other countries, has been active in the worldwide anti－terrorism campaign. Why does the Chinese government fully support the anti－terrorism campaign? What specific role is it taking in the global war against terrorism? And how has September 11 changed China's own security?
Taking off your shoes and having your body searched has become routine for travelers passing through Beijing International Airport. After the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States a year ago, airport security in China has become more vigilant. The tightened security has delayed processing passengers, but most of them have expressed their understanding and appreciation for the increased security.
"Though the security measures have become complicated, I feel it is necessary, for it ensures the safety of our lives," said a passenger.
Police dogs are used to check objects that appear potentially dangerous at most major events. And more security guards are stationed there to prevent potential threats. But these are just some of the visible changes.
For the first time in history, China's Criminal Law has added new norms to punish people who commit terrorist crimes. The Ministry of Public Security has even established a separate bureau to combat terrorism, and exchange information with other countries.
"The major terrorist threats facing China are the various kinds of possible terrorist acts by the international terrorist organizations, and the East Turkistan terrorist forces," said Yang Mingjie, professor of Institute of Contemporary Int'l Relations.
During his recent visit to Beijing, US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage declared that "after careful study," the US has added the East Turkestan Islamic Movement （ETIM） to its list of terrorist organizations. Chinese police have investigated hundreds of ETIM members who have received special training in Afghanistan during Taliban rule. They reentered the northwest region of Xinjiang, wanting to separate the region from China by using terrorist means.
Since 1997, the ETIM has undertaken hundreds of extremist acts, including assassinations, explosions and arson. More than 100 civilians have lost their lives in terrorist acts, and many of those victims were women and children. This picture may show the fierce nature of the battle between police and terrorists. Police intercepted a large shipment of arms, mainly transported from Afghanistan. They found that the ETIM headed by Hasan Mahsum is supported and directed by Osama bin Laden, blamed for the September 11 attacks on the US.
Sidiq Kasim is one of the terrorists. He admitted that he stayed in Afghanistan for four months. And he acknowledged that Hasan Mahsam had close relations with Osama bin Ladin, and his terrorist network.
"China is one of the victims of terrorism. And the Chinese government has always strongly opposed terrorism in all its forms," said Kong Quan, Foreign Ministry spokesman.
China borders Afghanistan, and is a world power. Its efforts to advance UN resolutions opposing terrorism, and getting a consensus among its neighboring countries, is regarded as crucial in this long－lasting campaign.
Just one year ago, terrorism didn't seem a daily concern to many Chinese citizens. Today, most Chinese agree that all countries should join in the fight against terrorism. The US is not the only target. Another "September 11" could happen anywhere in the world.
Source:CCTV
Editor:Wang Yin
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