On January 14, two days after Google’s announced threat to pull out of China, the People’s Daily published an interview of Wang Cheng, the Vice Chief of the Chinese Communist Party’s Department of Publicity and Director of the State Council Information Office.
In the interview, Wang said the Internet “has become an important national infrastructure, and the online information is the nation’s important strategic resource.” “Safeguarding the secure operation of the Internet and secure flow of online information is the fundamental requirement of safeguarding the fundamental interests of national security and the people, and promoting social stability.”
Wang also asked the Internet media “effectively to enhance the capability of guiding online public opinion,” “regulate the order of information dissemination,” and “promote the Internet media’s self-discipline.”
Source: People’s Daily, January 14, 2010
http://media.people.com.cn/GB/40606/10763399.html