Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the military to strengthen national defense, and to resolutely safeguard the interests of national development.

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President Xi made the remarks on Tuesday afternoon at a plenary meeting of the delegation of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and armed police force at the second session of the 13th National People's Congress, China's national legislature. 

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He said this year marks a key stage for China to develop its armed forces, as the country's 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) suggests the reform will be completed by 2020. 

While urging the military to focus on reform, Xi highlighted the importance of improving management in the military, and called for a sound cross-sectoral coordination mechanism. 

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He also talked about the significance of innovation, and hailed the buildup of a support system for the needs of war. 

During the meeting, Xi, also chairman of the Military Commission of the CPC Central Committee, said more work should be done to curb corruption and bureaucracy in the army. 

He also stressed the need to consolidate unity between the government and the armed forces and between the people and the armed forces.