Chinese military takes solid steps toward strong army over 5 years: Xi

China holds a military parade at Zhurihe training base in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on July 30, 2017, in celebration of the 90th birthday of the Chinese People's Liberation Army. [Photo: China Plus/Li Jin]

With five years of efforts, the Chinese military has taken solid steps forward in building a strong army with Chinese characteristics, according to President Xi Jinping on Tuesday.

The political environment, organizational form, system of military strength and work style of the military have been reshaped over the past five years, Xi said.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks while addressing a grand gathering in celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Since the 18th CPC National Congress in late 2012, the Party has put forward the goal of building a strong military under the new situation, pledging to build the military into one that follows the Party, fights to win and forges exemplary conduct, Xi said.

After a military meeting held in Gutian, Fujian Province, the Party has strengthened political work within the armed forces and made firm efforts in ensuring a clean environment and fighting corruption in the military, according to Xi.

Xi said that China has advanced the reform of national defense and the armed forces, making historic steps in building a system of military strength with Chinese characteristics.

"The system, structure, pattern and image of the army have all been renewed," he said.

Moreover, Xi said the CPC has been advancing fundamental change in how the military is run, adhering to combat effectiveness as the "sole and fundamental" standard for the military, and remaining resolved in safeguarding the country's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

He also noted efforts made in implementing new development concepts, focusing on real combat capability and promoting innovation, efficiency and civil-military integration, which all have improved quality and effectiveness in military building.