Talking with deputies from the Chinese People's Liberation Army
(PLA) on Monday, President Jiang Zemin, who also serves as Chairman
of the Central Military Commission, called for their concerted
efforts in contributing to the construction of a well-off society
and more reforms in the country's military sector.
First he gave an analysis of the current world situation. Then
Jiang Zemin stressed that the PLA soldiers and the leaders at all
levels should keep in mind their responsibility of providing a
staunch safeguard for national security as well as the construction
of a well-off society.
The chairman touched on the harmonious development of national
defense and economic growth, a valuable experience China has drawn
from its opening-up and reform drive. He said the army should take
China's overall situation into consideration and contribute to the
country's economic development.
Jiang called on the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to step up its
military reform, and to set the target of fully equipping itself
with IT by the middle of the century.
He
said the armed forces should be fully aware of the developing trend
in the international situation, hone their ability to deal with
crises and carry out missions, and reform the military with Chinese
characteristics.
He
stressed that all military soldiers, particularly high ranking
ones, must bear their fundamental responsibilities in mind, and
improve the PLA's defence capabilities under high-tech
conditions.
(People's Daily March 11, 2003)