BEIJING, Jan. 20 -- China issued a detailed guideline for a "new type [of] think tank with Chinese characteristics" to support development and strengthen soft power.

The guideline, which was jointly issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council, said that by 2020, think tanks in all organs must clearly define their positions and specialties, with the aim that several think tanks will wield major influence in the world.

This new type of think tank will play an influential role in the policymaking process and the modernization of governance.

Think tanks should stick to Marxist ideology, follow the CPC's leadership and provide intellectual support to help rejuvenate the nation, according to the guideline.