State Councilor Chen Zhili on Thursday presided over a special meeting in which she urged officials to improve implementation of the international code on doping tests and China's Anti-Doping Regulation.

"Proper doping testing is one of the important prerequisites for making the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games a successful and high-level sports event," Chen said.

She called for greater awareness of doping problems and more education among athletes and coaches, so as to enhance their sense of responsibility and self-discipline.

She said the drug market should be scrutinized. Companies that illegally produce, sell, import, or export doping and stimulant drugs will be harshly dealt with.

She said Chinese government adhered to the principles of "stringent prohibition, rigorous scrutiny, and harsh punishment."

China promulgated its Anti-Doping Regulation in 2004 and has vigorously prevented doping scandals and strictly dealt with those involved, she said.

The government actively participated in international cooperation against doping.

(Xinhua News Agency August 17, 2007)