China has built up a solid military Great Wall along its border and coast, with the strong support of the three generations of leadership of the Communist Party of China.

An article by Xinhua's military reporters, designated to mark the 74th anniversary of founding of the People's Liberation Army on August 1, says that during the past centuries foreign powers have frequently invaded China, mainly coming by sea, and they have also ignited wars at the country's frontiers.

According to the article, it was late Chairman Mao Zedong who first stressed that "we must build up a large and powerful navy force" in 1953.

Since then, the country has been developing a modern fleet consisting of missile destroyers, frigates and nuclear submarines, which are now supported by land-deployed missiles, fighters and bombers, and marine corps.

It says that China's late leader Deng Xiaoping and current leader Jiang Zemin have paid great attention to the development of the navy.

Jiang, Chinese President and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, has said that special attention should be given to the construction of the navy.

At the same time, the country has scored remarkable achievements in improving its frontier defense.

The article reveals that during the past five years, China has carried out an unprecedented frontier construction program in nine provinces and autonomous regions sharing borders with foreign countries, with the purpose of developing good neighborly relationships with these countries.

Since the 1950s the three generations of leadership have successfully solved a number of border and territory disputes through peaceful means, according to the article.

It adds that patrol helicopters, electronic surveillance equipment and other advanced means have been introduced to improve the border defenses.

In addition, the country has consolidated the harmonious relationship between the soldiers and local governments and residents.

Soldiers have participated in massive local economic development, according to the article.

It continues to say that Chinese leaders have shown special care for navy personnel and frontier soldiers.

Jiang Zemin has visited frontier sentries and navy bases several times, greatly inspiring soldiers there, the article says.

(People's Daily 07/28/2001)