President Xi Jinping has urged China's army to take advantage of the country's technological developments to upgrade its equipment.
Xi made the remarks during a meeting with military deputies of the National People's Congress during the annual session of the country's top legislative body, currently being held in Beijing.
Xi urged the army to make use of the scientific and technological advancements that China has made to modernise its weapons, equipment and training programs.
He also highlighted the growing connection between military and civilian technologies, increasing the need for greater integration between the two sectors.
To this end, the leader called for the elimination of institutional barriers and interest groups that hamper closer co-operation between the sectors.
The Chinese army is currently in the midst of reforms that began two years ago and through which it hopes to modernise and reduce its troops by 300,000 to two million by the end of the year.
China increased its defence budget by seven per cent this year, its lowest increase in over two decades.
