JINAN -- China's Defense Minister Chang Wanquan said on Sunday that efforts should be made to boost development of the nation's coastal defense.

Chang made the remarks at a meeting on coastal defense at the Jinan Military Area Command.

Chang stressed the overall national security outlook must be upheld and strategic importance should be attached to building coastal defense.

He said information technology in maritime management and control should be improved.

Chang stressed that economic development and strengthening national defense should be balanced and coordinated, and he called on everyone to care for the sea and support coastal defense.