The authorities have called for nationwide activities to promote relations between civilians and the Armed Forces during the coming holidays for the New Year and the Chinese traditional Spring Festival, which falls on Feb. 7 in 2008.

The Ministry of Civil Affairs and the General Political Department of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) jointly issued an annual, regular circular on the issue Tuesday.

In the document, the authorities reiterated the importance of launching the traditional programs of "Support Servicemen and Assist Their Spouses", by Party committees and governments at all levels and the "Support the Government and Love the People" by military units everywhere.

It urges Party committees and governments at all levels to help resolve difficulties the Army could have in carrying out military missions, training and exercises, and improve the working and living conditions of service people.

Meanwhile, it urges all military units to help localities and civilians in infrastructure projects, rural development, and charity programs, as well as preparations for the Beijing Olympic Games, which are scheduled to be held in August next year.

Party committees and governments at different levels and Army units should hold joint meetings, especially for dealing with problems regarding the employment and daily life of ex-soldiers and retired Army officers, it says.

(Xinhua News Agency December 26, 2007)