Chinese President Hu Jintao on Thursday called on the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the People's Armed Police Force (PAPF) to make new contributions to safeguarding national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, as well as to maintaining world peace.

"The PLA and PAPF must carry forward their glorious tradition, build up military strength and perform their duties earnestly," he said at a celebration marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of New China.