Minister of Public Security Guo Shengkun said Thursday that border police should be better prepared to protect China's marine interests.

Border police should actively adapt to new changes in international situations through enhanced training, Guo said at a Thursday conference.

Deputy Minister of Public Security Meng Hongwei also identified safeguarding marine interests as a focal point for border police.

Guo highlighted the forces' role in maintaining social order and stability in border regions, as well as protecting Chinese citizens.

Border control management and services should be improved, Guo added.

According to China's 2010 Defense White Paper, the main responsibilities of the border public security force include administering border, coastal and maritime public security, inspecting entry and exit points, preventing and cracking down on illegal and criminal acts in border and coastal areas and organizing counter-terrorist and emergency management operations in border and coastal areas.