National sovereignty comes first, says Hu
President Hu Jintao yesterday promised to protect the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of China in his first speech to the People's Liberation Army after being elected state Central Military Commission (CMC) chairman.
Mr Hu's election at the National People's Congress yesterday completed the 21/2-year power transfer from the president's predecessor, Jiang Zemin .
Mr Hu, 62, succeeded Mr Jiang, 78, as chief of the Communist Party in November 2002, and as state president four months later.
In his speech, Mr Hu called on army leaders to increase their sense of political responsibility.
'We should also put the defence of national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, as well as ensuring the country's development, above anything else,' the president was quoted as saying by Xinhua.
He also stressed the need to make the strengthening of political education a priority in the army, citing the advanced education programme for Communist Party members that he had initiated.
'We shall step up preparations for possible military struggle and enhance our capabilities to cope with crises, safeguard peace, prevent wars and win the wars, if any.'
The meeting was hosted by General Guo Boxiong , vice-chairman of the CMC, and attended by other vice-chairmen.
