BEIJING -- The top legislature is deliberating a draft bill to introduce national medals and honorary titles for both citizens and foreigners.

The draft is scheduled for a second reading on Monday during the bimonthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.

According to the draft, the nation will introduce Medals of the Republic to honor people who have made "great contributions and distinguished service in the country's socialist construction with Chinese characteristics and defense of the nation."

Friendship medals will be given to foreigners who "have made outstanding contributions to socialist modernization, promoted exchange and cooperation between China and the world, and helped maintain world peace," the draft said.

The national medals will be awarded by the president following selection by the NPC Standing Committee.

The draft also enables the president to give friendship medals to prominent foreign politicians and international friends during state affairs without a decision from the top legislature.

National titles of honor will be awarded for prominent figures who have made great contributions and earned strong reputations in fields such as the economy, society and education, according to the draft law.

National medals and titles of honor are intended to promote "socialism with Chinese characteristics," enhance national governance and modernize governing capabilities, according to Qiao Xiaoyang, chairman of the Law Committee of the NPC.

Qiao said they are also important for nurturing socialist core values and strengthening the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The draft was first read in a bi-monthly session in August.