Chinese President Hu Jintao, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended a group discussion with People's Liberation Army delegates to the NPC on Wednesday. He hoped the Chinese army would advance with the times and make defending the country and serving the people their top priorities.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (front L), who is also chairman of the Central Military Commission, shakes hands with a deputy of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) to the Second Session of the 11th National People's Congress (NPC), in Beijing, capital of China, March 11, 2009. Hu Jintao attended the plenary meeting of the PLA delegation on Wednesday. [Wang Jianmin/Xinhua]

Hu Jintao gave his assessment of the domestic and international situations. He said the army must recognize the changing security environment and resolutely defend China's national sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability. To make that happen, Hu said the military should continue modernization and enhance its sense of duty.

Hu Jintao said political awareness is one of the most important qualities the Chinese military should have. He said it's vital to equip the People's Liberation Army with modern equipment, and with socialism with Chinese characteristics, Deng Xiaoping theory, the important thought of the three represents and a scientific outlook on development.

The People's Liberation Army should do more than just defend the country, Hu Jintao went on to say. It should rise to the occasion during trying circumstances in the social and economic sphere, such as disaster relief and post-disaster reconstruction. The army should contribute to China's economic development and social progress.

Wrapping up his speech, Hu jintao said the Chinese military must practice thrift, a tradition that has been carried on for generations by men and serving this country.

(CCTV March 14, 2009)