China’s national security law gives PLA mission to protect overseas interests

China’s military is expected to expand its offshore presence with the passage yesterday of a wide-ranging new national security law that highlights the country’s need to protect its “overseas interests”.

Besides underscoring the need to protect national territorial sovereignty and integrity, the law passed by the National People’s Congress says it is the military’s duty to defend these overseas interests, through military action if necessary.

This is in addition to the People’s Liberation Army’s responsibilities in peacekeeping, international rescue operations and escort missions.