The Chinese military has issued a circular on improving the capability of the country's militia and reserve forces both in times of peace and war.

According to the circular jointly issued by the Headquarters of the General Staff and General Political Department of the People's Liberation Army, steps should be taken to better prepare China's militia and reserve forces for fulfilling their duties.

The circular contained a report from the Hunan Provincial Area Command on mobilizing militia and reserve forces to fight last year's floods.

Militia and reserve forces have been doing a good job in recent years in carrying out various urgent, difficult and dangerous missions, including fighting floods, the circular said.

Their performance has fully demonstrated the strategic position they occupy and the important role they have played in building and defending China, it added. (Xinhua)