NPC deputy calls Civil Code milestone in building of rule of law in China

Gao Zicheng, a deputy to the 13th National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, and president of the Beijing Lawyers Association, hailed the passage of China's Civil Code during a recent interview, calling it a milestone in the process of building rule of law in the country.

Gao pointed out some of the highlights of the code to show the progress in China's civil legislation. 

Taking personality rights for example, Gao said setting a separate chapter for them demonstrates China's seriousness and commitment.

Meanwhile, he mentioned the legal protection the code gives to citizens' privacy and residence rights as well as the code's response to social issues like the behavior of recklessly tossing objects from high-rise buildings.

He also noted the code's protection for data, privacy and virtual properties which is necessary as China has entered the internet age.

He particularly stressed the code's role in promoting the building of a good-faith society in China, saying that it would be of great significance to the development of China's civilization.

Meanwhile, the responsibilities prescribed by the code for environmental damages will also contribute to the construction of Beautiful China and Peaceful China initiatives, according to Gao.

He concluded his remark on the code by emphasizing that it will be conducive to further promoting fairness and justice, improving the business environment, and reviving market vitality, among other effects.

As a senior lawyer, Gao said lawyers tend to have a more complete and accurate feeling about the current legislation and judicial activities since they have closer contact to all walks of life than other professions.