National defense and army building have made new strides over the last five years, said Premier Zhu Rongji Wednesday in his Report on the Work of the Government delivered at the opening of the First Session of the Tenth National People's Congress.

Acting on the military strategies for the new era, the people's army has implemented the strategy of strengthening itself through science and technology. The revolutionization, modernization and standardization of the armed forces have been carried forward, leading to a rise in the country's military capability and the army's defensive combat readiness, says the report.

The task of reducing the armed forces by half a million troops was completed on schedule. Ideological and political work in the army was carried out effectively. Reforms in the army's logistical support system continued to deepen. The army's level of modernization in weapons was improved significantly.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army, the Chinese People's Armed Police, the army reserves and the people's militia have made great contributions to safeguarding the sovereignty and security of the country, supporting its economic development and providing rescue and relief in the wake of natural calamities or emergencies.

The report says more intensified research efforts have brought about new developments in defense-related science, technology and industry. Continuous progress has been made in national defense mobilization. Efforts have been intensified to encourage activities for mutual support between the army on the one hand and the government and people on the other, and this has further strengthened their solidarity.

(xinhua)