BEIJING, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- China is considering building military cemeteries to honor soldiers who have devoted their lives to the country, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs said Wednesday.

The ministry will release regulations on military cemetery construction and management in due time, said Wang Zhiming, a spokesman for the ministry at a press conference.

The ministry is currently soliciting opinions from both military and civilian professionals and drawing on the experience of other countries in the meantime, said Wang.

The move is crucial to strengthening the protection of rights and interests of military personnel and enabling their families to have a stronger sense of honor and pride, Wang said, adding such efforts will make military service an occupation that enjoys public respect.