Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, speaks at a joint inquiry into a report on the enforcement of the Environmental Protection Law at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept 1, 2022. [Xinhua/Pang Xinglei]

BEIJING -- Top legislature on Thursday held a joint inquiry into a report on the enforcement of the Environmental Protection Law.

Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, attended the meeting and delivered a speech.

During the inquiry, lawmakers asked questions focusing on issues such as the protection of the eco-environment in accordance with the law, the acceleration of environmental infrastructure construction, and the enhancement of ecological preservation and restoration.

State Councilor Wang Yong and officials from central government agencies, ministries, as well as the top court and the top procuratorate, attended the meeting to hear suggestions and answer questions.

Addressing the meeting, Li noted that a review of the law enforcement inspection shows that the country has made a series of significant achievements in environmental protection. He urged further efforts to uphold and improve law enforcement inspections related to environmental protection.

He also called for efforts to step up the formulation and revision of laws, as well as efforts to improve the socialist legal system with Chinese characteristics, with an eye on the full and effective implementation of laws.

Leading officials at all levels should develop and improve their ability to address issues and advance their work with a better understanding of the law, Li said.

During the meeting, Wang Yong said that since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, China's environmental protection endeavors have seen sweeping, historic and transformative changes.

However, the positive momentum should be consolidated. The State Council and relevant departments will continue to fulfill their duties, promote green, low-carbon and circular development, and ramp up the efficiency of their regulatory work and law enforcement, Wang said.

On Thursday, Li also attended and presided over a meeting held by the Council of Chairpersons of the NPC Standing Committee.

Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presides over the 123rd meeting of the Council of Chairpersons of the 13th NPC Standing Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept 1, 2022. [Xinhua/Pang Xinglei]