"Xi called for improving the quality and level of combat readiness, increasing training in key and complex issues, as well as strengthening new combat abilities," the defence ministry said in a statement.

The Chinese leader also noted the importance of comprehensive strengthening of "party building" within the armed forces and of maintaining a high degree of integrity, unity, security and stability of the troops.

China is holding a joint ground forces exercise with Singapore from late August until mid-September to strengthen practical cooperation between both states' armies and increase the level of real combat training of the troops.

(With UNI Inputs)