BEIJING -- China's top legislator Zhao Leji on Wednesday urged deputies to the people's congresses to perform their duties according to the law, and serve as the bridge that links the Party and the country with the people.

Zhao, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, made the remarks at a lawmakers' symposium held on the sidelines of an NPC Standing Committee session.

Deputies should enhance their political competence and awareness, and their capacity for law-based duty performance, Zhao said.

He called on the deputies to participate in inspections and investigations to learn about the country's economic and social development, as well as the people's concerns.

In addition, Zhao urged them to make comprehensive analysis and suggestions from the institutional and legal aspects, and incorporate people's wisdom and concerns into relevant proposals and suggestions.

Zhao called on the standing committees of the people's congresses at all levels to refine the systems and mechanisms to communicate with the deputies, and ensure that they perform their duties and participate in activities in an orderly manner according to the law.

He also called on the deputies to set an example by observing the Constitution and laws, have integrity and serve the public interest, and subject themselves to oversight.