BEIJING, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- China should accelerate the upgrading of defense-related science and technology and weaponry, Chinese President Hu Jintao said here on Wednesday.

Hu, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, said at the grand rally marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) that the country should boost the capacity for independent innovation.

"We must press ahead with the reform and development of national defense science and technology sector," he said.

He also said committees of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and governments at all levels should support the enhancement of military capabilities.

"Party committees and governments at all levels should do a good job in supporting the army and giving preferential treatment to families of servicemen," he said.

He also urged strengthening people's armed police to enable it to uphold state security and social stability and protect the life and work of the people.