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)